Meet our dynamic duo, a childless couple in their 30s with a penchant for adventure and a generous spirit. They’ve found joy in taking their young niece and nephew on exciting outings, covering all expenses, and giving their sister-in-law (SIL) and her husband a much-needed break. But when the SIL unexpectedly asks for $50 for some leftover home improvement supplies, the couple is taken aback. Is it time to start charging for those fun-filled outings with the kids? Let’s dive into this intriguing tale of family, generosity, and the unexpected cost of leftover paint.
The Generous Duo and the Young Adventurers
The Adventure Routine
The Unexpected Request
The Knee-Jerk Reaction
The Aftermath ️
The Dilemma
The Plot Twist
The Resolution
A Family Tale of Generosity, Unexpected Costs, and a Haunted Hayride
Our adventure-loving couple has been generously treating their niece and nephew to exciting outings, covering all costs, and giving their parents a break. But when their SIL unexpectedly asks for $50 for leftover home improvement supplies, they’re taken aback. The wife wants to start charging for the kids’ outings, but the husband thinks it’s petty. Just when things are heating up, the BIL sends a message refunding the $50. For now, the couple decides to let it go and continue their fun outings with the kids. But will this incident change the dynamics of their family relationship? Let’s see what the internet thinks of this situation…
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NTA but set new precedents. Explain she set a boundary
NTA: SIL’s cheap and ridiculous request for money and leverage.
NTA but the societal expectation is you invite (not offer) you pay.
You are inviting minors to various activities, knowing that they don’t have money themselves and you and hubby have been paying for them from the start. You have set the expectation that you will pay.
Your better option here would be to stop asking them to come places with you. If SIL and BIL really enjoy the free time, they will start asking when you will take the kids again. Then you can broach the subject. SIL and BIL I really feel hurt and used. We have been taking C1 and C2 out on adventures for the last year, yet when I asked for some leftover materials, you waited until we loaded them up to ask for money. If you still needed them or had plans, you should have said something. You should have also been honest about wanting money up front. I feel you have turned our relationship into a transactional one.
“NTA. Start taking the kids on fun outings and remind SIL to pack snacks “
“NTA but you can make a point without punishing the kids”
Engaging in a petty battle over finances and leftover supplies
Petty revenge: delivering supplies and waiting for free babysitting
Generosity backfires: NTA for not paying for her kids’ outing.
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“NTA. Boundaries needed. Don’t let one incident ruin relationships. “
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ESH, SIL sucks but don’t make outings transactional. Keep relationship w/ kids.
NTA. SIL and BIL using you as free childcare?!
Both of you are acting immature and petty GROW UP!
Super manipulative SIL waits until you’re packed to spring a $50 request. NTA.
Disagreement over supplies request sparks debate on generosity and affordability
ESH: SIL was petty, but throwing gifts in her face? AH move. Be careful in future interactions. True gifts don’t have strings attached. Give, or don’t give.
Kids not going on trips =/= suffering. NTA
“YTA. Expecting repayment for helping family? Let it go. “
Not the a**hole. Their lack of offer is inconsiderate.
ESH: Hidden costs and unspoken expectations lead to family drama
YTA for being petty and using kids as a bargaining chip
Stand up for yourself! SIL is taking advantage of you.
Petty money request sparks escalating tit for tat, hurting kids
Generosity tested: NTA for not paying for leftover paints
Generosity turned sour: A family feud with innocent casualties
