Because everyone has stupid expectations of how things should be. I'm already getting crap about Christmas. Can I get though Thanksgiving first!? Problem is, so much of it is forced. (Well, not all families but in a good percentage.) There's a sort of insanity involved in traveling so far by plane or in traffic for a specific meal done in a very specific way and shared with a group of people you are bound to fight with at some point, or just hide from.

Who complains about MORE PIES?! Tell her that kind of talk means the terrorists have won.

Ha. This is by far the most sensible approach suggested.

Anonymous wrote:My MIL only likes her own ethnicity's ethnic food. She gets very upset if anyone brings "outside food."

I have taken to showing up every year with some kind of random food item -- stuff from Trader Joe's, a bucket of KFC.
The next project will involve adulterating the ethnic food by coming up with variations that include things like chocolate chips and peanut butter. The only reason I haven't done this is because I haven't had time.

As long as nobody goes into anaphylactic shock from eating peanuts, you have my blessing.

My MIL only likes her own ethnicity's ethnic food. She gets very upset if anyone brings "outside food."

I have taken to showing up every year with some kind of random food item -- stuff from Trader Joe's, a bucket of KFC.
The next project will involve adulterating the ethnic food by coming up with variations that include things like chocolate chips and peanut butter. The only reason I haven't done this is because I haven't had time.

You are 42 OP. What would happen if you just said you were staying home with your own family this year. Or even better, you and your kids were taking an awesome vacation to some place warm (my family took us to Bahamas one xmas when I was in 9th grade and its one of the most memorable holidays ever). Quite frankly your teens would probably prefer that over the pie drama and crazy grandma. I seriously don't understand how grown women still can't stand up for themselves.

Who complains about MORE PIES?! Tell her that kind of talk means the terrorists have won.

After reading multiple threads on this subject I have come to the conclusion these vents are because YOU, the OPs, are the problem.

Stop being the cross bearer and try to be the peacemaker. Damn people, it's once a year holidays. Pull it together or cancel !