[Star]

Gerry's family was like that with me for the longest time, until I put a stop to it.

When they insult you while you're there, do you stay or leave? I would leave immediately without giving them anything to attack me about.

I stopped going to the family get-togethers or their houses for years. After all the crap they put me through, the last time was the last staw. I stayed away for a good 6 years. They didn't see us at Christmas or any holidays. I also stopped drinking with that family a long time before I stopped going there. If I wasn't drinking at all, they couldn't blame me for anything right? that worked.

Now, I am going to the family events and only restarted doing that last year. They are careful now and know that they cannot treat me like their doormat anymore; I won't take it. They are nice to me and treat me with respect now and that's the way it should've always been!

The next time that they do this to you, just leave. The next day when they call to appologize, tell them it's not accepted and you will not put up with that kind of crap anymore and won't have your kids witnessing any of it any longer. Tell them their behaviour is unacceptable and you will not subject your children to this kind of example. Let them know that if they can't control their drinking while in your and your kid's company that you will not be going to visit them anymore.

Invite them to your house but make sure there is no alcohol. We did that and it did work. People don't overstay their welcome when they can't drink, especially if they're drinkers. this way at least the kids can interact with their grandparents. It'll be good quality time since they'll be sober.

It's not easy to deal with a family who is alcoholic. Believe me, I've dealt with Gerry's for the past 15 years. But, you can change that around so that it doesn't affect you or your kids. It takes some time and a lot of guts getting there though.