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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

In-laws overstepping regarding our finances

235 replies

Mrscouldron · 24/05/2023 19:34

Hi
Im looking for advice how to sort this situation without a falling out. I’ve posted in aibu as I didn’t know where else to post it. My in laws are really overstepping the boundaries regarding our finances at the moment. For context we have 2 disabled children whom we homeschool. DH has a fairly good job and we prioritise after bills being paid giving the children the best life we can. This includes lots of day trips, holidays etc. FIL in particular is really starting to get on my nerves. He says we shouldn’t be going on holidays it’s too expensive. We shouldn’t buy the kids so much. Actually we don’t buy the kids much at all in the way of material possessions. We shouldn’t buy them so many takeaways. They have maybe 1 McDonald’s a month. He wants to know how much our outgoings are each month and what we have in savings. He demands to know what things have cost. He said my DS has too many fidget toys and I’ve spent a fortune on them. I haven’t it was a £15 pack as he had lost most of his old ones. I’ve tried ignoring him but he won’t stop and it’s got to the point I don’t want to go round there anymore. FIL isn’t actually DHs father so that complicates things further. What do I say to make him back off and let us enjoy our lives with the kids. DH is of the opinion we just ignore or lie about what we are doing as in laws live about an hour away. The trouble is the kids are sure to say something when they see them. I don’t think this is the answer. Thanks in advance for any advice.

OP posts:
Sceptre86 · 28/10/2023 17:18

You need to be upfront and very clear that comments about your finances are unacceptable, you won't be entertaining it any longer and should it continue you will reduce contact. Be firm and stick to your own boundaries.

Nevermind31 · 28/10/2023 17:44

bibbityboppityboo · 24/05/2023 19:38

I think your options are;

A) ignore him totally as DH suggested
B) wildly exaggerate. Triple every price you've ever paid for anything, wind him up with it and have a bit of fun.
C) start quizzing FIL. What's his pension worth? How's it invested? Does he have savings? Is he planning for retirement? What's with all the new shoes / jumpers etc?

I'd do all three on rotation until he gets bored personally. Some people are nosey and don't take subtle hints!

Perfect solution!

Mrscouldron · 28/10/2023 17:48

Update on the situation we are now no contact with fil and very low contact with mil. After mil attempted manipulations of how upset she is and that it’s all my fault we decided this was best. Fil is still of the opinion my dh should control me 😒 Life is so much more peaceful without them constantly interfering. Our dc have not asked about them once which I think is very telling.

OP posts:
JADS · 28/10/2023 18:33

This is a great update. FIL sounded like a complete joy sponge, but the 'control your wife' comment would have been the last straw for me. Glad DH has your back.

Thesunwillcomeoutverysoon · 28/10/2023 18:53

And a fantastic Christmas is in store for you op!! Haven't seen mil since Christmas 2014! Definitely recommend it!

AcrossthePond55 · 28/10/2023 19:19

Good decision and great update!

billy1966 · 28/10/2023 19:39

Mrscouldron · 28/10/2023 17:48

Update on the situation we are now no contact with fil and very low contact with mil. After mil attempted manipulations of how upset she is and that it’s all my fault we decided this was best. Fil is still of the opinion my dh should control me 😒 Life is so much more peaceful without them constantly interfering. Our dc have not asked about them once which I think is very telling.

Happy days OP.

What a wonderful conclusion.

Thank you for updating.

A relaxing peaceful Christmas awaits you hopefully.

Justkeepingplatesspinning · 28/10/2023 19:39

I'm really pleased to read your update. Well done on staying strong, have a lovely Christmas doing what you want to do!

ohfourfoxache · 28/10/2023 20:11

Genuinely happy for you - what a relief to be rid of such a nasty tosser

Ilikewinter · 28/10/2023 21:18

Brilliant result !!

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