Student earns failing grade as a vacation house-sitter

Dear Abby: One of my co-workers suggested I hire her daughter to stay in our home and take care of our pets and plants while we went away for a two-week vacation. The daughter is 20 years old and a student. Everything was fine, except our stockpile of granola bars and juice boxes out in the garage was nearly depleted. When I asked her about it, she texted that she had helped herself and meant to replenish the supply. She had also “borrowed” a couple of items from our home she forgot to return (blow-dryer, a game and our wine glasses), but returned them once it was brought to her attention. I was happy that my plants and animals were alive and our house in one piece. My husband, on the other hand, was not. He suggested I inform my co-worker that I won’t be hiring her daughter again. What is your opinion on the matter? — HouseSitting In The East Dear House-Sitting: I agree with your husband. Although the daughter isn’t a professional house-sitter, she should not have taken items from your home without permission or without informing you about what she had “borrowed.” And if she was not given permission to help herself to the goodies in your garage, she should have left them where they were or offered to compensate you. It could be chalked up to immaturity, but I think it should be mentioned. Dear Abby: I have been dating this guy for 2½ years. We started dating when he was separated and getting divorced. My friends and family have met him, but he has introduced me only to his friends. He didn’t want me to meet his family until now. He has a 3-year-old daughter. One day I sent him an article about “your kids shouldn’t be the most important,” and he thought I was trying to separate him and his daughter. I tried to explain that the article says you should love yourself first, but he still misunderstood. I told him I’m tired of him doubting us and my love. He isn’t sure if we are going to get married in two years. What should I do? I want this relationship to work, but at the same time I feel like he is dragging me nowhere. — Very Insecure Dear Very Insecure: You say that although you have met this man’s friends, you still have yet to meet any members of his family. Why not? After 2½ years, this is a red flag. That after all this time he says he isn’t sure he wants to marry you is an even bigger one. Put your cards on the table and tell him you think it would be better for both of you to start seeing others because even after 2½ years he still isn’t ready for a commitment and you are.