ANNIE’S MAILBOX: Didi does what she likes as sister stews

October 20, 2010 at 6:53a.m.

By Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar

Dear Annie: My sister, “Didi,” has been living with my husband and me for several months. Didi pays a modest amount of rent based on her income — but we set it up before she started working more consistently. She now has a part-time job and still doesn’t contribute anything more. If she were saving her money, I would understand, but she’s spending it on clothes and expensive makeup. She rarely helps around the house with cleaning or cooking.

I realize she is lucky to have a job, but she refuses to pick up a second one. I told her I saw a “for hire” sign at a fast-food place close to home, but she won’t apply. I should also point out that she doesn’t drive, and I take her to work each day. On days when I have to drop her off early or pick her up late because of my own job, she gives me a bit of attitude. Frankly, I’m ready for her to move out, but I don’t think she can afford it yet, and I don’t want her asking me for money to help pay her rent.

The complicated part of all of this is that my husband and I want to have a baby, but Didi is living in what would be the baby’s room. Nine months seems like a reasonable period of time for her to get her stuff together and move out. But if she truly cannot afford it, I don’t want to be the one making her live on the streets.

I love Didi, but am beginning to feel she is taking advantage of me. How do I help her get her own place?

Love my Sis

Dear Sis: Didi is definitely taking advantage of your tolerance levels. Are there any other relatives who might take your sister off your hands? If not, set up a time frame. Inform Didi that you are planning to get pregnant and once it happens, you will need her room for the baby and she will have to move out. That will give her at least nine months to find another place. Tell her you’ll be happy to help her search for another part-time job, an inexpensive apartment and a roommate. Whatever it takes.

Dear Annie: I am a 21-year-old female virgin. Two years ago, I had my first and only “relationship,” in which my boyfriend dumped me after a week when he realized I was not going to have sex with him. Since then, I have been afraid to seek out relationships because I’m scared of being pressured to move too fast.

I know it is ridiculous to judge all men based on a single experience. But society projects the idea that women are expected — even obligated — to give sex to their boyfriends. I want to avoid the risks of STDs and pregnancy, but I don’t know whether I am strong enough to keep saying “no.” Is it wrong of me to expect a relationship without sex?

Lonely, but Afraid

Dear Lonely: Of course not, but you are right that a lot of men expect a physical relationship with someone your age (although not after one week). There are plenty of guys who would be willing to get to know you and commit to a relationship before attempting to get you into bed. Keep looking. They are out there.

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