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Like them, love them, or hate them, in-laws are notorious for driving their relatives insane. Some even seem to make it their mission to consistently meddle in our marriages, offer fresh and uninvited perspectives, and never pass up an opportunity to remind us of just how wrong we are about basically anything in life. And often, these people will be in your life for a long time, whether you can stand the sight and sound of them or not.

Mothers-in-law particularly catch the heat (sometimes rightfully so!) from negative media tropes and cultural stereotypes about being judgy, overbearing, and quite frankly, horrible. However, the other part of the equation often gets overlooked. So how about we balance out the scales a bit?

Today, we're taking a deep dive into the world of fathers-in-law who left their relatives speechless by being their most infuriating, obnoxious, and annoying selves. We at Bored Panda compiled a list of times people called out their partner's dads for all the nonsensical things they've done, so pull your seat closer! Upvote the pics that angered you most, be sure to share your own unpleasant encounters below in the comments, and don’t miss the chat we had about in-law relationships with psychologist and relationship coach Dr. Wyatt Fisher.

#2

Father-In-Law Doing Something Disgusting

Father-In-Law Doing Something Disgusting

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#3

My FIL (Who's Extremely Right) Strikes Again

My FIL (Who's Extremely Right) Strikes Again

ScotchButters Report

It’s hardly surprising that in-law relationships can be complicated (to say the least!), as these people are usually thrust into your life without much thought or agreement on how things should be handled.

Of course, in some rare instances, the trope of in-law conflict may seem to be blown out of proportion. But the stereotypically bad relationships with their partner’s family are very real issues for some. After all, being forced into new family dynamics often creates relationships that are tense at best and toxic at worst.

Navigating through the complex dynamics of the bond we have with our fathers-in-law is a tricky matter of business, as there’s no guidebook or manual to tell us how everything is supposed to go. Some people are lucky enough to call them "dad." Others, as the examples in this compiled homage to the most irritating FILs out there show, would rather fake an emergency than spend one second alone in a room with them.

#4

Just My Racist FIL Being My Racist FIL. The Person Arguing Is Me, His Half-Mexican Descent Daughter-In-Law

Just My Racist FIL Being My Racist FIL. The Person Arguing Is Me, His Half-Mexican Descent Daughter-In-Law

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Susan Bosse
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ummm...celebrating with whatever music is the definition of FREEDOM.

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#5

My Poor Father-In-Law Never Saw It Coming. Rest In Peace

My Poor Father-In-Law Never Saw It Coming. Rest In Peace

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#6

The Back Window Of My Father-In-Law's Van

The Back Window Of My Father-In-Law's Van

stumptowncampground Report

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Manomnomnom
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That guy is definitely a major creep who I'm sure is hiding some sketchy stuff.

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To gain more insight on the topic from an expert, we reached out to Dr. Wyatt Fisher, a licensed psychologist specializing in couples counseling in Boulder, CO. As Dr. Fisher provides relationship coach training and shares illuminating insights on his Relationships & Marriage podcast, he was more than happy to share his thoughts on the matter.

Dr. Fisher told Bored Panda there are many common complaints with FILs that can put a strain on the relationship and, consequently, your well-being. "Problems with fathers-in-law can range from not receiving their approval if you're a male to feeling like they are sexually inappropriate if you're a female," the psychologist explained.

#7

My Sister's Father-In-Law, Who Is A Very Conservative Trump Supporter, Was Not Happy That She Bought Her Son A Baby Doll For Christmas

My Sister's Father-In-Law, Who Is A Very Conservative Trump Supporter, Was Not Happy That She Bought Her Son A Baby Doll For Christmas

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Katie Lutesinger
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My nephew has several baby dolls, and it's insanely adorable watching how tenderly he takes care of them. In fact I'm told when he was given his first one at the age of about two he instantly rushed over and hugged it! One reason why I keep saying he'll make an awesome big brother one day. <3

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#8

Show Me A More Manly Thing Than My Father-In-Law Doing The Laundry. I'll Wait

Show Me A More Manly Thing Than My Father-In-Law Doing The Laundry. I'll Wait

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Sedona
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If he rolled in a mud or something similar, this is great way to get rid of it.

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#9

Got A New Couch Delivered Today. Father-In-Law Decided To Test It Out

Got A New Couch Delivered Today. Father-In-Law Decided To Test It Out

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According to Fatherly’s 2016 survey, women are more likely (about 16% more than men) to feel a sense of dread when they have to hang out with their in-laws. Interestingly, when it comes to the disagreements people who are parents have with their partner’s family, only 38% admitted they don’t argue. The rest explained that the cause of disagreements is usually their parenting style (29%), politics (15%), money (14%), and career success (4%).

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#10

How My In-Laws Park Everywhere They Go

How My In-Laws Park Everywhere They Go

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Anna-Maria Aulin
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Perhaps give them a kids' coloring book for christmas so they can learn to stay within the lines?

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#11

These Things In My Father-In-Law's Car Are So He And His Partner Can Drive Without Seatbelts And The Car Won't Make The Alarm Sounds

These Things In My Father-In-Law's Car Are So He And His Partner Can Drive Without Seatbelts And The Car Won't Make The Alarm Sounds

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#12

My Father-In-Law Responds To A Picture Of Our Trans Foster Daughter

My Father-In-Law Responds To A Picture Of Our Trans Foster Daughter

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When asked about the reasons we often find it hard to grasp the complexities of this relationship, Dr. Fisher explained we often see them as difficult and complicated because it’s not discussed as often. "Therefore, there aren't as many resources for support and tips."

"Also, many people have had turbulent relationships with their own fathers, so it can make it even tougher to build a connection with their father-in-law because there's no model for fatherly closeness to fall back on," Dr. Fisher added.

#13

When My FIL Last Visited, He Ended Up Shouting And Swearing At Me In Front Of My Toddler Because I Called Out His Homophobia And This Exchange Happened The Day After

When My FIL Last Visited, He Ended Up Shouting And Swearing At Me In Front Of My Toddler Because I Called Out His Homophobia And This Exchange Happened The Day After

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DEW
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Great job!! Everybody should love who they want to love. I don't understand what anyone does in their lives is other people's business. I judge folks for who I see standing in front of me. I don't care who you are with, sleeping, living etc... Why do you care about other folks lives??

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#14

Twice A Year, My In-Laws Stay With Us For About A Week. Twice A Year, I Have To Replace All My Nonstick Cookware

Twice A Year, My In-Laws Stay With Us For About A Week. Twice A Year, I Have To Replace All My Nonstick Cookware

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Laura Ketteridge
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't. Keep one of the ruined sets in a box under a bed, and bring it out when they arrive. Put it away when they leave.

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godai
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Never occurred to you, you can just hide these when they come. Sure, takes a moment of thinking, but saves money and frustration. You can also ask them not to do this, like, y'know, human-to-human interaction. It works sometimes.

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BluEyedSeoulite
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband REFUSES to not use metal utensils and not wash chicken before cooking it. No matter how much evidence I show him, he won't stop. I've thrown out all the metal cooking utensils, he just uses regular metal chopsticks. Some people just choose stupid hills to die on. I just replaced our pots and pans with steel and ceramic. I made sure to use his credit card.

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Lisa H
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

After they inevitably ruin it, ask them when they are going to replace it.

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michael Chock
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just get cast iron, even if you soak it and the carbon flakes off, make some pancakes and its back to 100%.

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Ruth Hempsey
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Buying new stuff twice a year? Surely there are other ways to deal with the issue? In fact multiple people here have shared damn good suggestions. I'd go so far as to say it's not the in laws that need a lesson here. I think the op needs some common sense. That or they have too much money going spare. Gobsmacked.

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UnpopularPanda
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not defending the bad behaviour whatsoever but some of y'all salty just because the words 'In law' are involved. I'd cook for them myself if they spend 'twice a year' with me, or give suitable set of spatula to go with or keep a separate set for them when they come like mentioned in the other comment giving them benefit of the doubt that non-stick is not the type they're used to or probably wven know of. I wonder how many of these in laws are mentioning you in some other thread for what they didn't like about y'all?

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Lola Rogers
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I confess that my first thought is that you need some decent cookware. I'm a firm believer in pans that don't scrape away so easily.

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Carole Reid
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And people complain about landfills. I totally like the idea of having two sets. Your good stuff and the damaged stuff. And why are they in your kitchen in the first place?

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Mary Kelly
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

look....they are not going to change the way they treat cookware...assume that they are not ruining your stuff out of malice....bring out the bad stuff when they come...and let that s**t go....

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Marnie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't buy non-stick! Why would you risk cooking with something that is coated in chemicals. Did we learn nothing from using Teflon?

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Llama_flower93
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wouldn't it be cheaper and easier to buy some plastic utensils and hide your metal ones?

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Keley Babs
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Do they know? Or have they always used cast iron? I'll be honest even in my mid 30s I didn't know that you couldn't use metal or nonstick ware. I ruined my boyfriend's pots and I felt so bad so I bought him new ones. I had grown up using my mom's cast iron or glassware and then didn't really cook in college in med school. I honestly didn't know.

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Carole Strawn
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I solved that problem way up front by telling everyone that I don't allow anyone else to cook in my kitchen. You are welcome to use anything that doesn't require a stove. You can use the toaster and microwave and that's it. My house, my kitchen, my rules.

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Sara Cohen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're not alone. That is just one of the many reasons my husband and I have banned his mother from our kitchen.

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Felicia Dale
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Buy cast iron or ceramic non-stick, and as Laura Ketteridge says keep the ruined pans for when they come over.

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Epona
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My question is: do the in-laws have non-stick cookware at their home and use the incorrect utensils on them and frequently have to replace them? If so, do they not think to read the packaging of the pot or pan and see that it says (I assume that it says this, if it doesn’t, it certainly should!) “do not use metal utensils with this cookware!” or something similar? Do they not read packaging instructions? Do they not get sick of having to spend that money unnecessarily replacing their damaged cookware?

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cpo109
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Get some cheap pans you can use metal spatulas in for when they come, or hide metal kitchen tools.

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#15

How My In-Laws Eat Assorted Cheesecake

How My In-Laws Eat Assorted Cheesecake

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Donkey boi
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

2 things! Firstly, there is not a jury in the world that would find you guilty if you did something about that. Secondly, how do I find somewhere that sells cheesecake like that? [edit: I live in the UK and have NEVER seen cheesecake sold like that!]

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If you’re like most people, you know what a struggle your own family can be. But you’ve been dealing with them your whole life, and you’re likely to share common interests and agree with (at least some of) their thoughts.

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With your in-laws, it’s not always clear what you're allowed to say and how you're expected to behave. As there’s less of an overlap in common agreement with them, you may find yourself saying the wrong thing and sparking a conflict. The other choice is to stay silent and feel the resentment slowly growing inside. And, of course, vent your frustrations by complaining about them online.

#16

My Very Tech Challenged Father-In-Law Sent The Entire Family A Picture Of His Breakfast This Morning. That Photo Had A Watermark

My Very Tech Challenged Father-In-Law Sent The Entire Family A Picture Of His Breakfast This Morning. That Photo Had A Watermark

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#17

Ladies And Gentlemen, My Father-In-Law

Ladies And Gentlemen, My Father-In-Law

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Helena
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The idiots who love these flags are all so freakin fragile. You just want to give them the safety scissors, the glitter, a padded room, and a glass of warm milk.

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#18

Made Quesadillas, Father-In-Law Walked Into Kitchen, Took A Big Bite Out Of One, Walked Into The Bathroom. Walked Out And Took A Big Bite Out Of A Different One

Made Quesadillas, Father-In-Law Walked Into Kitchen, Took A Big Bite Out Of One, Walked Into The Bathroom. Walked Out And Took A Big Bite Out Of A Different One

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As we enter the holiday season, a time dedicated to spending time with our loved ones and being thankful for being together, many of us inevitably arm ourselves with patience as in-laws are bound to drag us into their dramas. So how are we supposed to handle infuriating FILs when we’re thrown together for an extended period of time with nowhere to run?

Dr. Fisher advised that the best course of action is to have an honest conversation with your other half. "First, let your partner confront their difficult behaviors instead of you. Second, ask your partner how to respond to your father-in-law if they aren't around. Third, pick your battles."

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"You're most likely not going to change your father-in-law so try your best to accept them as they are as long as they aren't mistreating you," the psychologist suggested.

#19

Once Again. Another Gem From My Father-In-Law. And He Even Got 3 Shares This Time

Once Again. Another Gem From My Father-In-Law. And He Even Got 3 Shares This Time

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xolitaire
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The people crying about getting chipped by vaccine... happily carry around cell phones. Which can be tracked..

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#20

FIL Started A Tattoo On Me 4 Weeks Ago. He Sold His Equipment 2 Days Ago

FIL Started A Tattoo On Me 4 Weeks Ago. He Sold His Equipment 2 Days Ago

9K-7F Report

#21

How My Father-In-Law Lets The Candles Burn

How My Father-In-Law Lets The Candles Burn

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DEW
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That needs to STOP!!! Get him battery operated candles! I hope this isn't in your home

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But as many people know from practice, the turbulent bond you have with your FIL can drastically affect your relationship. Dr. Fisher agreed with this line of thinking and explained that things particularly tend to go sour when your spouse ignores or disagrees with your feelings.

"If you have a difficult relationship with your father-in-law and your partner doesn't have your back, it can quickly strain your relationship with your partner because you'll feel vulnerable and defenseless," he said.

#22

I Sent My Future Father-In-Law A Linking Puzzle For Christmas. He Just Sent My Fiance This Picture Showing How He Solved It

I Sent My Future Father-In-Law A Linking Puzzle For Christmas. He Just Sent My Fiance This Picture Showing How He Solved It

Alysaria Report

#23

My Father-In-Law's Remote Is But A Small Glimpse Into How Infuriated I Become When I Visit My In-Laws' House. No Excuse Is Good Enough

My Father-In-Law's Remote Is But A Small Glimpse Into How Infuriated I Become When I Visit My In-Laws' House. No Excuse Is Good Enough

NorseCelt137 Report

#24

Told My Father-In-Law I Pulled A Muscle At The Gym, He Said A Little Of This Will Make Me Feel Better

Told My Father-In-Law I Pulled A Muscle At The Gym, He Said A Little Of This Will Make Me Feel Better

reddit.com Report

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If you find yourself struggling with similar situations, Dr. Fisher suggested that sometimes, you just have to draw the line. "You have to set hard boundaries with inappropriate or difficult in-laws."

"However, other times people tend to overreact to behaviors that really aren't that big of a deal in the grand scheme of things. Keep things in perspective and make sure your partner has your back and let them do the boundary setting, not you," Dr. Fisher concluded.

#25

This Is How My Father-In-Law Gets Butter For His Toast

This Is How My Father-In-Law Gets Butter For His Toast

stacksmash Report

#26

My Father-In-Law Said There Is A Park On The Apartment Complex For The Kids To Play. This Is The Park

My Father-In-Law Said There Is A Park On The Apartment Complex For The Kids To Play. This Is The Park

fiftystorms Report

#27

I’m Totally Middle-Of-The-Road, Non-Political And He Thinks It Means I Voted For Trump. Anyways, Here Are My Texts After A Night He Was Drinking

I’m Totally Middle-Of-The-Road, Non-Political And He Thinks It Means I Voted For Trump. Anyways, Here Are My Texts After A Night He Was Drinking

My father-in-law is on the other side of the spectrum. 

TheImported Report

#28

Father-In-Law Drives Through Front Lawn To Avoid Backing Up

Father-In-Law Drives Through Front Lawn To Avoid Backing Up

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Helena
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When learning a new skill would bruise your ego, might as well go with property destruction.

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#29

From My Father-In-Law. I Don't Even Know What To Say About This One

From My Father-In-Law. I Don't Even Know What To Say About This One

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Ariom Dahl
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hmm, I dunno. Some people who think like this would be okay with the idea if it were their favoured politician running a global government.

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#30

Ladies And Gentlemen, My Father-In-Law

Ladies And Gentlemen, My Father-In-Law

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#31

My Father-In-Law's Toothbrush. Those Brown Bits Are Some Kind Of Mouldy Cereal

My Father-In-Law's Toothbrush. Those Brown Bits Are Some Kind Of Mouldy Cereal

chefscotty Report

#32

Father-In-Law Text Me This While I Was Volunteering In Buffalo

Father-In-Law Text Me This While I Was Volunteering In Buffalo

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#33

My Father-In-Law And The Remnants Of His Weekly Visit

My Father-In-Law And The Remnants Of His Weekly Visit

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#34

My Father-In-Law Always Posts Things Like This, Christmas Is Going To Be So Fun

My Father-In-Law Always Posts Things Like This, Christmas Is Going To Be So Fun

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Ariom Dahl
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The threat of global warming isn't funny, but the caption here IS. :)

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#35

My Cousin's Father-In-Law's Ladder Arrangements

My Cousin's Father-In-Law's Ladder Arrangements

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Balso Steele
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've seen worse, by tradesmen scaffolders. As long as they're anchored & tied together properly (which they must be: look at the physics of the ladders. They HAVE to be tied to hold each other that way), there's nothing wrong besides no (visible) fall-protection harness & lanyard.

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#36

My Father-In-Law, Helping To Foster Productive Discourse

My Father-In-Law, Helping To Foster Productive Discourse

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#37

My Father-In-Law's Response To Me And My Pregnant Fiancée Decisions To Not See Them Due To Corona

My Father-In-Law's Response To Me And My Pregnant Fiancée Decisions To Not See Them Due To Corona

C0dyL88 Report

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Hotdogking
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well he wasn’t wrong with the last statement, he just greatly understated its severity

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#38

How My Soon-To-Be Father-In-Law Opens The Milk Carton

How My Soon-To-Be Father-In-Law Opens The Milk Carton

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#39

My Father-In-Law Ladies And Gentlemen

My Father-In-Law Ladies And Gentlemen

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YourSecretSanta
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Honestly, sounds like OP is gaining if he never has to interact with his FIL ever again

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#40

How My Father-In-Law Stores His Knives

How My Father-In-Law Stores His Knives

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Katie Lutesinger
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Huh, I have that exact same bread knife. Which I keep stored in a knife block like a sensible person, thankyouverymuch!

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