My SIL...AUGHHHH!!!

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-28-2006
My SIL...AUGHHHH!!!
2
Fri, 12-29-2006 - 5:10pm

My issue is my husband's niece. They grew up together and are only three years apart. Her mother died when she ten and she moved in with my in-laws and husband. SOOOO...they are more like siblings. They refer to each other that way.

My issue with my SIL is that she is controlling. Everything has to go her way. Like for Christmas, there is another family that we are close with and we always get the three families together to exchange gifts. My friend, Karen, realizes that my family doesnt have much money this year because I will not be able to work while I student teach. Her idea was to draw names. Everyone agreed thought it was a great idea.

My SIL decided to go ahead and buy everyone gifts. THen she said that she had bought them before we decided this. It is a control thing. Since Karen is our mutual friend, she is trying to see if Karen will side with me and do the exchange or side with her and we buy gifts for everyone. Karen has four kids, my SIL has three, and I have two....that adds up.

My husband talked to his sister and next thing I know....we are going over on Christmas Eve to do presents with her family. When it comes to her, he caves. He told me that he promised everyone that he would take care of her and that is what he is doing. He also said that we will have to move away from her...that is the only way to deal with her.

Anyone have similar problems? Any advice?

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-27-2006
Fri, 12-29-2006 - 10:22pm
It sounds to me like your SIL needs to grow up. The woman has three kids, your DH should not have to "take care of her". She is an adult. She needs to learn to take care of herself.
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-28-2006
Sun, 12-31-2006 - 1:29am
Thank you but it doesnt seem like I can convince my husband or her of that.