How would you handle this issue?

[Anianna]

I agree with the recommendation to invite family over to help with the work and the recommendation to say you just don't have any to spare because you have to cover your expenses.

When my mother was young, she wanted to paint, but painting supplies are expensive and my aunt wanted pieces of her work. So, my aunt purchased the supplies and, in return, got most of my mom's art. Perhaps you could request supplies from family in return for the fruits of your labor. I think politely giving them the option to help out by providing labor or supplies may get them more involved and create a give and take situation rather than just a take situation.

Good luck with it.

 

[australorpchick]

Quote:
Thank you Wifezilla, you managed to put exactly what I'm feeling, into words.

Without going into too much detail, because that would be a whole 'nother post, DH and I have helped my family out a lot; $ we never expect to see, housing, clothing, food. DH & I have decided to start taking some steps back, since we've feel that we've become enablers.

I definitely agree with the tamales - same goes for lumpia.

 

[nellie]

I have two sisters one of whom I am happy to give some eggs to as she is always there for me and family in many different ways. The other sister is very much in the mould of I see it, I want it. So, when she made comment about not having had any eggs from me I gave her one. She said - what you only brought me one?? My reply was - (said innocently) Oh sorry I thought you wanted a try before you buy, if I'd known you want some to buy I'd have brought a dozen. Just let me know anytime and I'll bring them along - of course you'll get 5% family and friends discount.

- - I'm still waiting

 

[NWChicks]

I decorate cakes as a hobby and have done several wedding cakes. As you can imagine, everyone in my family expects free cake! I had to draw the line. With some of the family members simply saying, "I'd be more than happy to teach you how to do it! Come on over!" was enough to give them the hint. Others I've had to be more blunt. I've had to plainly say if they want a cake they either need to pay for it (materials AND my time!) or make their own. I have way too much to do and pay for to be making free cake for everyone on the planet. If I opt to make a free one then that's up to me, but don't expect it! Now they all think I'm cranky but I don't have to make them cake and I'm ok with that.

 

[darkstarr nite]

I believe tellin them these sitems cost you money an offer them a reasonable price if they don't like it they need to get over it ... your not running a charity are you... the chickens dont eat for free... and the veggies don't grow themselves... I would also ask them to help so they can realize the time and effort you put into these things... the grasshopper story always pops into my head ... or the story about the hen and the bread... no one wanted to help ... but they sure wanted the bread when it was done!!

 

[chickensducks&agoose]

I'd just hit the used bookstore, and buy up a couple copies of 'the little red hen', pass them around. If anyone starts asking, just remind them that you're 'little red henning it', and change the subject. That's what I do with my kids sometimes, when they want the reward, but refuse to help with the work.

 

[Sonoran Silkies]

chickensducks&agoose :

I'd just hit the used bookstore, and buy up a couple copies of 'the little red hen', pass them around. If anyone starts asking, just remind them that you're 'little red henning it', and change the subject. That's what I do with my kids sometimes, when they want the reward, but refuse to help with the work.

Ooooo! I think she just named your egg business. Make up some business cards to hand out along with the book. You could add a line on the card about "custom canning at reasonable rates."​