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I've been married a little over two years, no kids. I get along with my in-laws, but for short periods only. Actually, I really like my father-in-law, it's the mother that makes life difficult.

Anyway, she's visiting for a few weeks. At the very least it's given me a reason to take the long way home a few times and go joy riding instead of being home.

We're driving around on Saturday when we begin talking about motorcycles. She commented that her brother had just sold his motorcycle, because he finally "got it out of his system." Then she goes on to say that she's glad I'm going through this "phase" now, so that when I have kids I'll be over it and won't be a bad influence on them!

I just about ran off the road when she said that. I made a smart comment that killed the conversation, but I've been steaming about it since. How do you guys react to things like this, and how do you handle your mothers-in-law?

I just respectfully let it go in one ear and out the other then continue on with my day.

Chalk it up to her being ignorant about motorcycles and don't let it get to you. Sounds like she makes generalizations based on the statistics she hears.

Believe me, I know she's ignorant about motorcycles. She asked if she could take my 650lb, 1200cc bike out for a ride without ever having been on a motorcycle before.

Problem is, she has my wife convinced that if she just puts up with my "phase" I'll get over it.

Maybe its a phase maybe it's not, either way it's not your MIL's bussiness. Just let in one ear and out the other.

need tips?

im an expert on letting things pass to one ear and out the other.














PS. i just figured i'd say it before somebody else.

That seems to be the standard advice though. It would do me some good, but I'm horrible at it.

My rule of thumb is that its not your problem...just ignore it and discuss it with your wife. If it becomes an annoyance that she just gets on you too much, get your wife to deal with it. Her job is keeping her parents in line, your job is keeping your parents in line. Keeps the peace better that way.

End of the day, doesnt matter what she thinks...matters what your wife thinks.

Look at it this way. Maybe she's right and it is a very long phase. You'll get out of this phase when you can no longer ride.

scan wrote:Look at it this way. Maybe she's right and it is a very long phase. You'll get out of this phase when you can no longer ride.

I'll accept that!