DEAR ABBY: I had my first child eight weeks ago -- a beautiful baby boy. I would like to let him stay with my parents; however, my mother refuses to clean her house. The place looks like it has been ransacked. There are piles of old newspapers, old magazines and old mail everywhere.
It's not uncommon to find dirty dishes and utensils under the couch and on the floor. There are TV tray tables stacked 6 to 10 inches high with papers.
Abby, my baby's safety comes first. I'm not germ-phobic, and I know a little dirt won't hurt. But all those rubber bands and paperclips left on the floor could hurt.
Mom acts offended that I won't allow my baby to be left at her home without me. My sister says I'm overreacting since her child "survived" all his visits. Am I being unreasonable? -- APPREHENSIVE
DEAR APPREHENSIVE: When I began reading your letter, I thought you might be. Then I reached the part about the dirty dishes, rubber bands and paperclips left on the floor and realized the place could be a health hazard not only to your baby, but also to your parents, who could trip on the debris and injure themselves. Have you considered volunteering to help your parents clean the house, or treating them to a cleaning service?
I'm pleased your sister's child has "survived" his visits to his grandparents'. However, to leave your child unattended there could be considered child endangerment, so I'm voting with you.