Tootsie makes a good point that there are some selfless people in this world who will do anything to help anyone within their means.
I too come from an Italian family, and although it killed my mother to hold back at times, she later said that sometimes she decided NOT to step in and help because she wanted us to learn how to figure it out on our own, make our own mistakes and figure out our solutions.
I think that was probably what SJ was suggesting.
excellent Mango. your mom sounds very grounded. it's okay to be giving and supportive of your children, but you must be able to let them live their own lives as well. and you can't be responsible for their decisions and mistakes.
some caring moms take it too far, which isn't helpful to their grown children as they intend.
i'm only sorry that sell30A felt compelled to use this board in the way in which he/she did.

excellent Mango. your mom sounds very grounded. it's okay to be giving and supportive of your children, but you must be able to let them live their own lives as well. and you can't be responsible for their decisions and mistakes.
some caring moms take it too far, which isn't helpful to their grown children as they intend. While I agree with SJ completely, I also feel that Diane needs to be able to deal with her family as she decides is best, without judgement.
i'm only sorry that sell30A felt compelled to use this board in the way in which he/she did.

sell30a has a right to post that after he/she was taken to the cleaners
Just to be fair - this is the email where I was informed that the work would not be done! (i did edit out personal information that I did not think was appropriate to mention here, if diane wants the entire message posted, she can post it)
Randy,
I'm really sorry, at how this situation has turned out! You may not believe it, but Russ is, too! He didn't want to believe that he couldn't handle it, but apparently, that was the case. He had to take a full time job and has had numerous issues, to deal with. Not the least of which, was the *****personal********. I won't bore you, with the details! I wasn't aware of the overall situation here, as he didn't want to concern me.
Russ is going to be leaving for the Arctic Circle soon, to work with my brother. There is a great opportunity for Russ there and I'm very hopeful for him! ****personal*****. Again, I'm hopeful that the Alaskan trip and time with my brother, will be of great benefit!
Russ will be returning items that he can and sending you a money order, for the balance. Please provide your mailing address and I'll forward it to him. Unfortunately, he felt that it would be best, if handled in this way. I hope and pray that you forgive and I know that Russ does, as well!
Sincerely,
Diane *******
(Needless to say the money order never came.....)