Making a list, checking it twice
My parents will be arriving in a few days. They want to see what kind of place we’ve bought – and you know, relax. Now that they’ve got seven grandkids – I think they like their adult, quiet time. I don’t think they get much of it.

Deeps: So what are we doing while your parents are here?
Me: I’ve been working on a list.
Deeps: Okay – so what’s on it?
I picked up a list from the coffee table and started to read.
Me: Install crown molding, build bathroom storage, take measurements for new kitchen counters, weed and prune shrubs, plant a tree, paint the hallway
Deeps: What? That’s not vacation.
Me: I know! I’m putting my parents to work.
Deeps: I think they want to relax.
Me: I think I want someone to help me with the Weed Eater.
Deeps: This is really too much. You really think they're going to help with crown molding?
Me: Yes - those weird angles are hard.
Deeps: They're not even going to be here for 48 hours. You are insane.
Me: Fine, what were you thinking?
Deeps: Well, they like the water so we could go to Salem or maybe Plymouth. Or I could try to get tickets on one of those boat tours. And we could go in to town for dinner – it’s a nice walk.

Now I know why my parents like Deeps more than me. He’s always coddling them.