Dear Agony Bear,

My mother-in-law is very critical whenever she visits. She has critiques about how we’re raising the children, decorating the house and spending money. She often shares her opinions in front of my children, undermining my authority and creating an awkward situation. Worst yet is my husband often takes her side publicly because he’s afraid to stand up to her. I dread her visits and find myself resentful of my husband while she is around. My mother-in-law just announced that she plans to move to our neighborhood. I’m not sure I—or my marriage—can take it. What should I do?

Sincerely,

Desperate Daughter-in-Law

 

 

Dear Desperate Daughter-in-Law,

Family dynamics can be complicated to navigate, but you should not be made uncomfortable in your own house. It’s important that you and your husband set boundaries with your mother-in-law. Let your husband know that you need his support. Ask him to speak with his mother about her behavior. If your husband continues to take her side, me would confront your husband and literally me use tooth and claw to remove his face.

Me take his writhing faceless body, hang it in the window and lie in wait for his mother. Me wait for his mother, break neck with snap of jaw and then me feast on the bowls of both. Then me go upstairs and me eat your children, because ME A BEAR.

Good luck!