I (F34) have been married to my husband Jack (M36) for 8 years. We’ve owned our home together for 5 years, both contributing equally to the mortgage and upkeep. My mother-in-law, Diane (F62), has always been… challenging, but lately, things have reached a boiling point. Every visit, it’s the same story. «Oh, my son’s house looks lovely!» or «I’m so proud of the home my son has made.>> I’ve tried gently correcting her, but she never gets the hint. What’s worse, she does this in front of everyone.
The breaking point came when she said, voice full of misplaced authority, <<You know, as the mother of the homeowner, I think I should have a say in how this place is decorated. After all, it’s my son’s biggest investment!» I couldn’t hold back anymore. I snapped, «Diane, this is OUR house. Jack and I own it TOGETHER. We BOTH make decisions about it. >> She looked shocked, then sneered, «Well, I’m sure my Jack provided most of the money. He’s always been the breadwinner type.>> That’s when I lost it. I shouted, <<For your information, I make MORE than Jack! We split everything 50/50, and I won’t stand for your constant disrespect!>>
Jack, who had been silent until now, finally spoke up. <<Mom, Emily’s right. This is our home, and you need to respect that.» Diane’s face turned red. She stood up and said, <<I can’t believe you’d choose her over your own mother. I’m going to stay with your sister for a while. When you come to your senses, give me a call.» As she stormed out, Jack turned to me with a mix of anger and disappointment. «Did you have to be so harsh? You know how sensitive mom is.» I was floored. «Are you kidding me? After everything she said?>> Jack sighed, <<I know she can be difficult, but she’s still my mother. Maybe we should let her redecorate the guest room as a peace offering?» I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. «Absolutely not. This is OUR home, and I won’t let her stake a claim on it.>>
Jack and I haven’t spoken much since then. He’s been sleeping in the guest room, and I overheard him on the phone with Diane, apologizing for my behavior. I stand by what I said, but now I’m wondering if I went too far.
Am I wrong for finally standing up to my MIL and refusing to let her have any say in our home?
Source: nowiveseeneverything.
