Pool parties lead to pilfered property
"Dear Amy: I have three sisters-in-law. I have been a part of their family for 15 years. We all get along (for the most part).
Recently, my husband and I purchased a home. We have an open-door policy for people to come and use our pool. We also host family gatherings.
At our latest gathering, I noticed two of his sisters wearing my clothes. One volunteered: "We were wet from the pool, and found these in your dryer." I was assured that I would get the clothes back that night, but they were never returned to me.
Last weekend there was a birthday party. They made off with some towels.
I went to their home, and found a blanket that was given to me by my mother being used as a curtain in one of their bedrooms.
One sister asked me if she could borrow a shirt, and I obliged. She wore neither of the two options that I lent her, and has not returned them.
I prefer not to be confrontational. I know this is petty because at the end of the day, those things do not really matter. I feel frustrated because people are violating my kindness and my space.
People come over knowing that they're going swimming. Is it my responsibility to provide them with clothing and towels?
-- Put Upon
Dear Put Upon: If you truly believe that these material things don't matter, then carry on. Prepare yourself to have your home slowly stripped, however.
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