My name is Joyce, a 68-year-old retired widow. I was excited when my son invited me on a 10-day family trip to Italy—until my daughter-in-law told me she expected me to stay at the hotel and babysit their three young children the entire vacation.
I made my boundaries clear: I wanted to explore Italy, not be treated like free childcare. When she said, “Then don’t come,” I quietly booked my own flight seat and hotel room instead.
I wasn’t being petty—I was choosing independence. Even as a grandmother, I don’t owe unpaid labor on a family vacation. I love my grandchildren, but I’m also a person who deserves rest, travel, and joy.
Now I plan to enjoy my Italy trip on my own terms.
Am I wrong for choosing myself?
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