Dealing with meat eating family members at the holidays......

[smbolisnch]

Every year, the entire family comes to our house on christmas eve for snacks and gift exchange etc. Last year, I was not vegan, so this year, my family is giving me a hard time.

For instance, my sister-in-law asked me when I got started on this "kick." I told her that it wasn't a kick and explained why I am doing it. My mother in law keeps asking me to prepare all of these meat and dairy dishes, and act like she forgot that I was a vegan. When I remind her, she just sighs and acts annoyed. Since everyone makes something to bring, I told them to bring whatever they wanted and I am making salsa, bean dip, salad etc., so not to worry about me.

I don't want it to even be an issue, and don't want a fight at christmas. (for my husband's sake if nothing else) His cousin will be coming tomorrow, and I just know she will start on me. She is the conservative bush supporting freeper in the family. (The only one attending, thank gawd.)

How do you deal with family members with snide remarks and comments?
Thanks for the tips!

Meg

[Kenneth ken]

1. I'm sorry you have to go through this

:hug:

try to be polite, and if/when anyone starts questioning your choice, explain your reasons, and ask them if they feel threatened and if so, why.

It's easy for people to attack anything 'different', harder for them to defend their attacks.

I hope you have a Merry Christmas.

:hi:

[Robeson]

2. Meg,

It took about 5 years before my family finally got it through their heads that I was not going to eat meat. It will take time. Don't expect a quick fix. Just hold true to who you are, and eat everything else but the meat, and don't worry about them. I know its easier said than done, but they are just projecting, if they attack you.

[smbolisnch]

3. Thank you both.....

:grouphug:
I just hate being put on the defensive, especially about things that have no bearing on their lives, whatsoever.

I will do my best to avoid it if it all possible. I did make my vegan spinach dip, so when they ohh and ahhh about it, I'll be sure to let them in on my little secret. :)

Merry Christmas!

Meg

[livinginphotographs]

4. Only vegetarian since November,

So naturally everyone acted like it was a "phase." I generally tried to be low-key about it and not bring it up. That way, I wouldn't distract by step-dad from grunting and growling about those damn Ay-rabs. :eyes:

Hence the reason I don't go home all that much.