I would really welcome GNs views on my situation, which I'm sure isn't unique. I have been married twice, but for most of my adult life was a single parent (ie skint). I am now retired, on a modest income which does not meet my expenditure, but I do have savings on which I draw to supplement my income. I own my own house, which I anticipate selling in the fullness of time, so that I can downshift.
I am 64, and I have decided (rightly or wrongly) to enjoy life while I can, and choose to live modestly nay frugally so that I can travel and enjoy hobbies whilst I still have my health and strength.
My problem is that some of my family and friends seem to think I am much more well off than I am. For instance, I had a holiday to India last year with my beloved daughter. We did it on the cheap apart from a posh hotel to which she treated us. My son then thought this meant I could afford to lend him £8000 interest free to buy a new car for his wife.
I am tired of going out for meals eg with the family of my daughter's boyfriend to be met with that phrase - shall we split the bill? To which I feel like saying NO - there are 4 of you and 2 of us.
When I was working, I enjoyed being generous, but now that I am retired and wanting to spend money on myself, I feel there is some resentment about this. I hate to plead poverty and have always prided myself on paying my way. Any ideas on how to deal with this? I really would be most grateful
