The Plan That Sent Them Packing

When polite hints failed, I realized it was time for a bigger move. I organized a huge family barbecue and invited everyone—cousins, aunts, uncles, the works. Everything seemed normal until I announced I had a “fun little slideshow” to share.

One by one, photos appeared on the big screen: Stan lounging in boxers, Andrea sleeping in our bed, Josh gaming on my console, and Susan posing our cats in costumes. The silence was brutal.

No one said a word. That night, they quietly packed up and left. Kelly and I watched their car disappear down the road, feeling both relieved and guilty. But we learned something priceless—helping family is kind, but boundaries are essential. Our home is peaceful again, and our marriage is stronger for it.