My MIL and Husband’s Sisters Made Me Clean Up Alon
1. The Setup
When I married Henry three years ago, I knew his family was loud and traditional — but I didn’t expect every holiday to turn into a solo performance starring me. This Easter, I decided to change that.
Henry’s family wanted us to host, but with a catch: they expected a fully catered event, free of charge, organized entirely by me. Grace said, “Since you and Henry don’t have kids yet, you’re the perfect person to plan the Easter Egg Hunt.” What she meant was more than hiding eggs — “writing clues, assembling puzzles, coordinating costumes, and—wait for it—hiring a bunny mascot,” all at my expense.
2. The Demands and Frustration
The requests kept coming. Thelma, my mother-in-law, added me to a group chat excluding Henry, asking, “Since you’re already helping, dear, would you mind cooking Easter dinner too? Henry deserves a wife who can host well.” The sisters demanded a full meal with “ham, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole,” and “a light option for us watching our figures,” without offering to bring anything or say thank you. Henry was furious, but I told him, “Let me handle this.”
3. The Easter Day and The Golden Egg Challenge
On Easter, I cooked everything and prepared a massive egg hunt. The critiques started immediately: “The ham’s a little dry,” “These potatoes could use more butter,” and “In our family, gravy goes in a proper dish.” I smiled and told Henry, “You worked hard all week. Go relax with the guys.” Then, I surprised everyone with a “Golden Egg Challenge.” Inside the prize egg was a note: “Congratulations! As the winner of the Golden Egg Challenge, you and your family get the honor of cleaning up after Easter dinner!” The kids were thrilled, but the adults were stunned.
4. The Payback and Victory
The sisters grumbled but couldn’t refuse when their kids cheered them on to clean up. Lillian muttered but accepted rubber gloves; Violet started scraping plates; Grace chased her toddler who helped wipe tables. I relaxed with a mimosa, enjoying my small victory. Thelma’s usual glare softened into maybe respect or surrender. Henry smiled, saying, “This is the best Easter ever.” Next year? I’m betting they’ll bring a dish — or ten.