DEAR ABBY: I have a sister-in-law, “Greta,” who is married to my husband’s older brother. I have invited her and their family to our home countless times over the past 10 years, giving plenty of time to RSVP. Greta has done the same, and I show up with my “brings.” I then help to clean up and am pleasant.

Greta never attends our parties, gatherings, etc. She always responds with, “We have other plans,” or, “We are just going to stay home.” It hurts. Should I keep inviting them? Other family members are annoyed by her excuses. She has never liked me, but she’s married to my husband’s brother, and they have two children I would like to see. Should I stop? — COURTEOUS IN COLORADO

DEAR COURTEOUS: If you want to see your nieces and nephews, why not invite THEM out to do something with you? That way, you can interact with them without having to spend time with someone you know doesn’t particularly like you. Greta might also be grateful to have some time to herself. Frankly, it’s surprising that Greta is the one refusing those invitations for her entire family, which makes me wonder how close your husband and his brother are.

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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.