| Adapted from an online discussion. Dear Carolyn: My daughter-in-law barely tolerates me in spite of my doing any favor she asks, never giving advice and trying my best to have no demands. The only time I broke down and asked my son about it, he said I handle “it” well. She has no contact with her family for legitimate reasons, I believe. I’ve contemplated trying to ask her to go out for coffee and ask what I can do but am afraid it could backfire. She is always polite but always aloof. I can’t dance any faster … but I’ll do anything for my wonderful grandchildren. — The Dreaded Mother-in-Law | 
