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End of My Tether (another DiL thread, sorry!)

(30 Posts)
WishIWasSaintly Fri 17-Aug-18 21:57:59

Many thanks for those replies so far ...
Doodle - she is 45 so I suppose I can live in hope that she'll tone down!
And oldbatty I think that IS a very good point. I have sort of been co-opted into 'replacement mother' role with her but perhaps it would be best to take a step back.
And MargaretX she IS unhappy but you are right, it's not my job.
I suppose I am disappointed as I am succeeding in building a good practical relationship with another (very different from me) DiL that is based on respect and finding common ground (e.g. loving the children)
This first DiL though ... I just sometimes want to wring her neck! Breathe, breathe ... let it go etc.
Thanks again!

MargaretX Fri 17-Aug-18 21:39:03

This is a good point batty
There is no rule saying you have to love your in laws. The name implies people who are related to us legally. They are not blood relations and you should try to get on with them but it is often wearisome and tiring. and if its not working then try to just keep the peace.
Try this if she speaks then answer if not keep quiet but smile and if she loses her temper then leave the room.
It sounds as if she is unhappy but she herself has to come to terms with that its not your job.

hope things improve.....

oldbatty Fri 17-Aug-18 21:20:06

Sorry you feel down about this. Maybe the key is where you say you have tried so hard to love her.

Could you tone down your expectations and settle for "get on OK with"

Doodle Fri 17-Aug-18 21:06:35

I don't know if this helps or not but I have had family members who are younger and in work who do have quite strong opinions about things and voice them. I have found as they get older and find out more about life they mellow a bit.
You can't make other family members like her but as she is your sons wife perhaps you can try and ignore her remarks which upset you and try and keep the peace for your sons sake. I know others will come on here and tell you to otherwise but sometimes, least said soonest mended works best.

WishIWasSaintly Fri 17-Aug-18 20:32:04

Hello

This is my first post though I have been a member for a while and lurking.

My problem is with my DiL and I do know it's a common one - and I did have a tricky relationship with my own MiL so I have looked at it from both sides!

My DiL and son have recently moved back to the home town where other family also live and whilst lovely to have them closer she can be a very difficult character (as can most members of the family at times). They've been together 11 years.

I feel sad for her as she doesn't have close family (only child of parents who have both died) but she is gradually making everyone in the family go off her & making herself isolated.

She's often rude & opinionated and extremely loud in social situations, sometimes she argues with everything everyone says. Other times she is really kind and generous.

Her comments are difficult to stomach and she's always making insensitive jokes about me and OH as if we are ancient and bumbling old farts. (I'm 55 & she's only 10 years my junior!)

Myself and OH have chosen a simple low key life with part time work so we can spend time with the grandchildren (that are from my other kids) and she is frequently rude about our lack of disposable income. She works full time in a well paid job but I don't think it gives her the right to say 'You can't afford it!' when I talk about things.

I suppose I need a place to vent so hopefully you won't mind, she just upset me hugely this morning to the point of weeping for ages. (Yes, I am menopausal ...)

I have been doing my best to love her, she has lots of family issues, grief etc. but I find myself coming to a point where I almost wish my son would leave her!

Thanks for listening and I look forward to any advice!