Would you say it is weird that I've never been to my grandparents' house before?

Question

I'm 16 years old, and have never visited my fraternal grandparents' home in my life (I visit my maternal grandparents' house regularly, however). 

I'm not 100% sure why, but my parents have never wanted to take me there (neither have my grandparents themselves). I see them on a regular basis, but it's always when they come to MY house. 

As a matter of fact, they live only 40 minutes away, yet I've only been in their town one time - and that was for a high school football game! 

I don't know much about my dad's side of the family. He (and his parents) are rather solitary, and from what I've heard, he did not have the best childhood. I can tell, as it shows in his everyday actions. His parents still reside in the same house that they raised my father. I rarely hear anything about my dad's family. As a matter of fact, the few times that I do, it's typically my mom that tells me! I know close to nothing about my dad's childhood; as well as his extended family (anyone beyond his parents). My knowledge of his family is essentially limited to him, his parents, and his brother (and a few other extended relatives whom I hear the names of every once in a while). I've been hinted that one main reason we've avoided their house is because my grandparents have a tendency to save things... a lot of things... to the point of "pack-rat" behavior. 

Does this family relationship seem strange / weird? Is there anyone else who has family "issues" like this? How do they compare?

Plain and Simple · Accepted Answer

It is very odd, and yes, there's probably a reason for it.

My dad "saves" things.  He's 80 now.  His 2nd wife was in a car accident one time, had to be in the hospital and thought it was wonderful--told my dad if he didn't clean up she wasn't coming home.  He chose the things over her.  He was in a little accident last year and I went to see him.  He couldn't walk very well.  Had a 3 bedroon house that was filled with stuff, there was a path between the kitchen, the chair in the living room, and the bathroom.  That was it.  

Would I take a little kid there?  No.  You're getting older, in a couple of years can go on your own if you want.  It's nice that you have a good relationship with them, enjoy what you have.

Anonymous · Answer

Paternal, My father died last year.  He was a pack rat type too. It took me weeks to go thru his stuff and divide it up and get rid  of the junk he collected. It does seem strange that your family never goes there. Maybe their house is inadequate for family gatherings. Could be lots of reasons. Why not just ask your dad? Dad, I been thinking about this etc, etc,,,,,You might get the rest of the story.  Pax Christi

ravenjudge · Answer

all families have some 'weird" behaviors and relatives, at least to outsiders. You'll have to respect your dad's feelings, but you can get to know your grandparents on your own someday.

big red · Answer

That is strange. Is there something wrong with there home?I would try to go there myself and see.

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Would you say it is weird that I've never been to my grandparents' house before?

4 Answers