And I didn't have to wait long for the next outburst.

Delivered her grocery shopping and could tell by attitude that I wasn't going to escape another load of vitriol. Usual subject, no compassion for her. It's obvious that I'm expected to heal the family rift. All the usual stuff levelled at me (it's a long story but she doesn't like being confronted with how she's behaved over the years).

Unfortunately, I raised other issues including the way she's constantly complaining about my aunt. Constant conversations on the subject that stop me doing things for her. Mother is now moaning that no one does anything for her; she's got to do it all herself! Claims house is dirty, she's not getting dressed most days. Advised her to be more positive. She's now wondering who I've been talking to.

Sorry to say, I was losing my cool. Stopped short of saying it was emotional blackmail. What I did say was that how ever many times she believed that I should make first move with sister-in-law, I've said it's not going to happen. It totally sends out the wrong moral message. If I apologise, there will be something to replace it.

My parting words were she can get someone else to do her shopping as I no longer want to be the punchbag. I then walked out. Just wondering how much more I can take of this. Of course, it's all my fault!