IL's Christmas and payment

[Smarshian]

So we go to our ILs every other Christmas usually. This year is their turn. We asked a while ago if they would like us to bring anything (food/wine etc) or just contribute to the shop in some way. I'm pregnant so not drinking but my DH likes a drink at Christmas and will probably go through a couple of bottles and some gin (we are staying 3 nights).

They didn't want any money from us (which I would have preferred to be honest as then you feel more like you are contributing). They have asked us to bring a cheese board and a couple of bottles of wine. Fine. This week they have sent us 3 different messages reminding us about this, checking we have bought the 'right crackers' etc etc.

AIBU in thinking if you want specific things or worry we will forget then just get them and ask for some money towards the shop? I'm now worried that the crackers I've bought are going to be commented on as 'they aren't in a tin'

Infuriating. My ILs do this but in reverse. Every year they put together some "goodies" but refuse to confirm in advance what they're bringing because it's a present . So we have to buy the stuff anyway in case our guess is wrong and we end up with doubled up boxes of bog standard crackers or whatever (some present, but that's another thread

Mrs Fanshawe - that does sound irritating, but OP I think you've got off lightly there.