Dear Abby: After being married for nine years, my relationship with my mother-in-law has not been great. She often says hurtful things and, to be honest, she hasn’t really accepted me.
Recently, when we visited, things went south. We wanted to keep the mood light during lunch, but she started insisting that my wife apologize to her niece over a minor misunderstanding. I ended up asking her to leave, and then she started crying, saying, “I’m so sorry that my eldest son married such a horrible person.” Any advice? — disrespected in rhode island
Dear Neglected: Clearly, there’s tension between you and your mother-in-law, and the feeling seems mutual. She definitely crossed a line by criticizing your wife during lunch. However, perhaps you went too far with the way you asked her to leave. Depending on how your wife feels about maintaining a relationship with her mother, talking to a family therapist might help if you all want to work on this together.
Dear Abby: I agreed to attend the birth of my great-grandson. I was informed that if my granddaughter hadn’t given birth by the 14th, they would induce. But I forgot that births can happen unexpectedly. When I left town on the 11th, my granddaughter called to say she was on her way to the hospital.
I missed the birth! I know it’s my fault, and it breaks my heart. Now, my granddaughter isn’t speaking to me. I’ve tried reaching out, but she’s not answering. I feel like I’ve made a huge mistake. Please advise. — Stumbled in Colorado
You stumbled: It’s unfortunate you missed your great-grandchild’s birth, but it doesn’t define your life. Mistakes happen; it’s part of being human. It’s sad that your granddaughter is upset with you, but hopefully, she’ll come around after you send that bouquet of flowers and a heartfelt apology.
Dear Abby: My son-in-law calls me lazy and antisocial for using drive-up grocery stores. I explained that this method helps me save time and money while curbing impulse buys. Am I in the wrong? — Insulted in Wisconsin
Dear Insulted: You are not wrong at all. What you’re doing is practical and shouldn’t be criticized. I wonder why your son-in-law feels the need to put you down. Is there something larger at play in your relationship with him or within his own thoughts?
