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Over the years, there have been numerous Double Take stories that are difficult to mediate and resolve. “Summer Split” is not one of those.
What a blessed situation, where the parents can host their children and grandchildren for four weeks upstate in combined lodgings of one larger bungalow and one smaller, newer one. This family deserves a gold medal for shalom and achdus, living together for a month-long vacation.
The oldest couple, Chezky and Faigy, have always occupied the newer bungalow, since their family size is largest, Faigy works online (needing Wi-Fi and quiet surroundings), plus this has been the arrangement for the last couple of years. A few weeks before summer vacation begins, Mom suggests that the other couples deserve an opportunity to utilize the nicer bungalow. The other two married sisters are envisioning this new summer plan, ready to put it into action. As can be predicted, this is no-go for Chezky and Faigy.
A significant change of living quarters cannot be implemented without necessary warning and definitely not close to the onset of the summer season. Instead Mom must act on the Three R’s: repair, replace, and rejuvenate. Windows and bathroom tiles need to be repaired, upgrade the electricity and replace faulty ACs with split-level units, and replace mattresses, linens, towels, and buy a few Wi-Fi routers. Rejuvenate the lumpy old couch with a newer model, buy doorknobs, and provide locks for room privacy as starters. Grandma’s stuff has lost its aura and the new generation, plus welcomed in-law children, are not nostalgic over the Big House of Old.
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