Dear Ann Landers, What can I do, short of outright rudeness, to convince an in-law that I do not want her discarded clothes? I don't want her new clothes, either, because her taste is so different from mine. Unfortunately, nothing I say seems to make any difference.
My daughters feel the same way about this woman's clothes. We are all short, small-boned, short-waisted ash blondes. Our "benefactress" is a tall, slim brunette who looks terrific in colors none of us can wear. She is also a shopaholic with an eye for what looks best on her and has plenty of money to spend. Even when she buys something new for one of us, it is in her style, not ours, the color looks hideous and the shape is all wrong. We end up wasting a lot of time returning things.
I have tried to tell this relative tactfully that I don't want any more of her clothes, but she continues to bring over dresses, coats, blouses and so on. Some people would say this isn't anything I should complain about, but it's beginning to irritate me, and I'd appreciate your help. -- Perplexed in N.C.
Dear N.C., You have told "Miss Bountiful Gift Giver" already that you don't want any more of her clothes. If she persists in bringing them over, simply say, "These lovely things are going to Goodwill and a few other charities that I am interested in. I am sure they will be appreciated." That ought to do it.
Hi! It's Margo here. I'd love to know what you think of the letters -- and the answers!
Also, any additional thoughts you might have. Thanks!
Reader Comment
Cans someone be born an alcoholic? I was raised by a heavy drinking family. My father, mother, grandparents, aunts
Reader Comment
I would also let the senseless benefactor of her ugly clothes know they will be in your next yard sale; anything unsold will be donated to Goodwill. End of story!
John Williams's Comment
Just sent you a mail by error. It was about Trump
Reader Comment
Why should this woman have to waste her time going to good will? I would NOT let the woman leave the clothing with me. She is rude and needs a wake-up call.
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Dear Readers, , he said, 'Not really. I am not your father.' I was devastated when he told me that and immediately confronted my mother. She said, 'Your dad doesn't know what he is talking about.' My father says, 'Your mother knows the truth and is lying through her teeth.'
I don't know what to make of this. Should I have a paternity test done to settle this once and for all, or should I just drop it? Why would my father tell me such a thing after all these years? I am in a state of shock. Please help me figure this out. -- Totally Baffled in Spokane, Wash.
