Funny · Advice & Questions · Oct 18

Can I enjoy our holiday without bringing home a magnet from every stop?

Funny

My partner held up a magnet shaped like a castle and said, 'We can't leave a gap in the journey.'

We had already bought magnets at four stops. At the fifth, I realised we weren't choosing souvenirs we liked; we were completing a series nobody had announced.

The fridge at home is shared, and I prefer having a bit of clear space on it. She loves being reminded of places when she makes breakfast. I picked the first magnet myself because it showed a ridiculous little boat, so I understand why she thinks I'm in on the project.

There are three more stops. Each magnet is only a few dollars, but the cost isn't really my objection. I want to enjoy a place without first deciding which small object proves we were there.

Can I stop collecting while she continues, and ask us to choose what actually goes on the fridge once we're home?

Discussion

3 community replies

@MorganSays

The boat was a choice you liked; it didn't necessarily establish an obligation to document every stop. Say that directly. You can be enthusiastic about the trip and still decline another magnet. Make the fridge conversation about the shared display rather than judging her way of remembering places.

@TheoInTransit

She may be enjoying the continuity, including the places whose souvenir designs aren't especially good. A complete route can mean something to her even if each castle is ordinary. Let her explain that before proposing a final selection; you are negotiating shared space, not disproving the value of the collection.

@maren17

Decide together where the magnets will go before buying the final three. If all eight have already been promised the fridge in her mind, waiting until you get home may feel like withdrawing an agreement. Tell her now that you haven't agreed to the whole display.

Can I enjoy our holiday without bringing home a magnet from every stop?

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