You know how we always fuss over the old folks, right? My older brother finally turned up from across the pond.
James popped over a few weeks ago. Hes been living in the States for over ten years now, barely finding the time to swing by the parents. This was only his third visit since he moved out. He brought a bunch of trendy clothes and a lot of imported goodies for Mum and Dad, I told David. When James left to chase his luck abroad, Id been the one looking after Mum and Dad. Now I realise I shouldve handled things differently, and Im kicking myself for not seeing it sooner.
Jamess visit lifted Mums spirits straight away. She forgot all her aches and rushed to whip up treats for her son. Mum and Dad were thrilled to have their son and his wife over. While James and his wife, Pippa, were staying, Mum and Dad were a whirlwind, never quite sure how to keep everyone happy and fed. Dad loved playing with his American grandkids, and Mum kept the kitchen alive with cakes and roasts for Pippa.
For two weeks the house was buzzing with a proper holiday vibe. Pippa spent her days from breakfast to bedtime in the kitchen or glued to the telly, sipping tea. Not once did she offer to pitch in or tidy up after herself. When they finally left, Dad slipped an envelope of cash into their hands. James chuckled, What am I going to do with a lot of pounds when Im back in the US? but he didnt turn the money down.
That night, after the guests went, Mums blood pressure spiked again. Pippa had to brew her a soothing tea and spend the whole evening looking after her health. Dad asked me to chop some firewood something hed bragged about doing the night before, swinging his axe like a pro, even though he couldnt manage it on his own today. I watched Pippa being pulled in every direction kitchen, Mum, the house and it was just exhausting.
So whats life like living with the parents? Pippa and I have been married for almost nine years, and weve been living in my parents house the whole time. Theyve retired, so theyve stepped back from the chores, leaving all the repairs, cleaning and everyday upkeep to us. Weve taken on the full responsibility: fixing leaky roofs, fitting new windows, replacing the fence paying for everything out of our own pockets.
James hardly ever visits. When he does, its like a whole new family shows up everyone suddenly bright, active and full of jokes, as if nothing ever hurts.
We decided to move back in with Mum and Dad so we could help them more easily whenever they need it. Looking back, I know moving in like this wasnt the best choice, but weve poured so much money and energy into the place that walking away now feels like a waste. My parents dont really notice the daily grind we do. They keep praising James to relatives and friends, while they call us failures for still living under their roof. Im at a loss about what to do next.
