By Ask Alice
Dear Alice,
I am in a long distance/weekend relationship and unavoidably spend every other weekend with my boyfriend’s family (we take turns visiting each other). Unfortunately, they aren’t exactly hospitable. The weekends I stay there are the ones my boyfriend has to work during the day. His parents always fix dinner for us, and sometimes they also invite me for breakfast – if I’m lucky. However, they have never offered me something to eat besides dinner and breakfast, or at least showed me where I can find a snack if I get hungry. I’m not sure if they go without any food during the day, but either way I find it strange that they expect me to do so. I’ve recently resorted to buying my own food, but that doesn’t seem to work either. Whenever I bring my own food they either complain about certain items, because they can be unhealthy for their dog in case he steals them, or they subtly hint at me to share and get upset when I don’t. On the other hand, I pay for everything my boyfriend needs when he is staying with me. I desperately want to get along with my boyfriend’s folks, but feel like it’s all up to me. I’ve considered not staying there anymore, but I know that would really hurt my boyfriend. Do you have some advice on how to deal with this situation?
Sincerely,
Perplexed Guest
