Yeah, I'm probably being selfish...

SusieQ1982 · September 2009

But I'm getting annoyed by this acquaintance of ours. He's an older gentleman that we know through one of our hobbies who has a severe back injury so he doesn't really get out much.

We have had him over a couple of times for lunch and once for a BBQ with his whole family (he's married, 3 teenage kids). The last time we had him over, he kept calling us and calling us saying he had a baby gift for us so when would be convenient for him to bring it over and should we eat in or go out to eat? We are trying to save money so we suggested he come over. It was OK but I always find him just a little off because it seems like he doesn't pick up cues too well. He'll make a huge mess in our kitchen, use my personal laptop without asking, little things like that.

So now it's been about 2 weeks again he's been asking us to pick a day because he says he has another gift for the baby. I'm just feeling a little frustrated. If he wants to get together, that's one thing, but I'm starting to feel like he's holding these gifts hostage or something! I mean, we certainly appreciate the thought but the whole situation just weirds me out a little. Not to mention I don't really feel all that much like entertaining lately. Oh, and he and his wife were invited to the Jack & Jill baby shower that is being thrown for us next weekend anyway!

Shananah · September 2009

Tell him you're not feeling up to it, and you'll see him at the shower. You have every right to refuse company at this point.

rnbride18 · September 2009

I wouldn't worry about it, and suggest they come to the shower and bring it then

C-Charm · September 2009

I thought I was the only one who found people who have a social IQ of <10. Stick out tongue

I agree with PP. Just politely decline the invitations...and be firm. If you want to soften the blow, you can allude to getting together at a later date.

AlyVance · September 2009

I agree. Just tell him you are not up for it and will see him at the shower. That is frustrating.

KimberlyJean · September 2009

Shananah:
Tell him you're not feeling up to it, and you'll see him at the shower. You have every right to refuse company at this point.

Ditto - and fwiw I would feel like he is using the gifts as an excuse to come over and be in your lives. Also, the use of your laptop (with or without your permission) during a brief visit with you is just plain weird.