| Adapted from an online discussion. Dear Carolyn: My mom died six years ago, and less than a year later, my dad threw himself into the online dating scene. Immediately, every new girlfriend became a big part of our lives. They’d move into the house and take over, decorating it her way, etc. I know we all grieve differently, but I found it disrespectful. It’s his house and his life, though, so I kept my mouth shut. My 30th birthday is coming up next month, and when my dad asked what I wanted, I told him I wanted a fishing trip like we used to take. He said great, so I checked and the cabin we used to rent was available. He said he’d take care of it. This week, he told me that “crummy cabin” wasn’t nice enough and he’d booked a vacation home on a different lake. I looked at it and the fishing isn’t good; they don’t allow dogs, so my dog can’t come; and the house is way too big for me, him and my brother. It turns out he’s planning on bringing his girlfriend, her kids and her sister. I’ve never even met any of them besides the girlfriend. He’s acting like this is such a great birthday gift because the house is all flash, with a hot tub, home theater, etc., but it’s nothing I want. Would it be ungrateful of me to back out of this trip? I’d have more fun at home having dinner with friends and going on a long hike with my girlfriend and my dog. — Not Really for Me Answer this week’s reader question Here's your chance to channel your inner Carolyn Hax and respond to a reader question. | 
