The author's mother, known for her unprofitable spending habits, regularly takes frequent international vacations and leaves her with insufficient funds for essential items. Her husband and sister are not willing to give her the monthly allowance she wants, but believe if she follows a budget, she would have everything she needs, plus a little extra for fun. However, they do give her gifts on special occasions and pay for necessary home repairs or practical items she has complained about. The author suggests that this is a form of disrespect for their financial support and suggests that while you gave the money, you withheld control over how it was spent.