My DIL Took Me on Vacation With Them Just to Make Me Her Maid

Everyone deserves a vacation to rest and recharge, especially this grandmother who’s been working herself to the bone caring for her husband and grandkids. When her DIL invited her for a family vacation, she thought it was out of goodwill, but her DIL had something else in mind.

This is Maria’s story.

Hi Bright Side,

I don’t have a job. I’m a stay-at-home wife. I cook and clean for my house. During my spare time, I care for my grandkids as well. I’ve noticed that my DIL has been keeping an eye on me. She said, “You need to take care of yourself, you look terrible.” It was so rude of her, but I didn’t say anything because I knew my son would make a big deal out of it.

One day, my DIL told me they’re having a long family vacation at her beach house and she wants me to come. I thought she invited me because she wanted me to take care of myself and have a break. But then, on the first day of vacation, she asked, “What are we having for lunch?”

I asked her what she meant, and she said I’m the expert in the kitchen, so I should do all the cooking. I was shocked, but I made lunch anyway. By dinner, I posted a list on the fridge. It was a meal plan for the next week. I told my DIL what she’s in charge of. She just stared at me and walked off.

My son came up to me and accused me of putting too much pressure on his wife. I told him that I’m not the maid, everyone should do something. He was mad and told me to leave. I’m upset and I don’t want to say anything, but I also don’t want things to go sour with my son. What should I do?

Sincerely,
Maria H.

This is what the Bright Side team thinks.

Thank you for sharing your struggle with us, Maria. You were right to feel hurt by your DIL. Her comment was disrespectful. You must’ve felt betrayed by her for asking you to work and cook despite being invited for vacation.

For this reason, you should’ve been more up-front about how you felt. Posting the meal plan in the fridge was a good idea, but you also need to address her attitude towards you more clearly. You can tell her, “I appreciate you inviting me to your vacation, but I only came to relax. I wasn’t aware that I had cooking duties.”

That way, you can fully express how you feel. As for your son, sometimes, our children don’t realize what they’re allowing to happen. Have a private, respectful conversation with your son. Let him know you’re feeling disrespected by his wife and would like his support in creating a healthier balance with your DIL.

Everyone deserves a vacation to relax and bounce back to their regular lives. Unfortunately, for some moms, vacations can prove to be more part of the job. Just ask these ones what happened during their “time off.”