Juneau, it's really too cold.
So, talking to my parents last night, I found out the following 3 tidbits:
My dad has not bought a television or a new piece of television-related technology in almost 18 years. He has no idea what front and rear AV-inputs or S-Video are (nor does he need to). He just knows his TV died and he needs a new one, with a coax input. Thankfully, they still had a 5" black and white, so they didnt need to buy one immediately. But, they found a 20" today for $109. I have my doubts as to whether it's stereo.
Next, their trip to Alaska has been cancelled. Too expensive, Dad says, and too cold. They're simply too old and too poor, according to him. One dream written off. "So, I guess you don't need that new camera you wanted for the trip, then?" I asked. 'Nope. Not now. Save your money,' he said.
Thirdly, they're really going ahead with plans to move to Florida 6 months out of the year. That's right. Looks like they'll be buying a two-bedroom house somewhere in a decent neighborhood somewhere in central Florida. The kicker to this one is my dad wants me to invest $100/month in it with him (25% of his mortgage). "It assures you a return on your investment. When I die, it will all be yours, and it's only going to appreciate over time." Yeah, Dad. In 30 years, you will be 89 and I will be 59 with decrepit houses in (at least) two states. Still, in 10 years, if he's still alive, I imagine we'll be making those indeterminite plans to sell at least one of them. At that point, my mom will be 67, and likely be looking to move closer to at least one of her siblings. Or me. Oh GOD I do not want to become them, and now I'm looking at my life as theirs has been. I'm shutting up now.