Hi there, TGV team and all!
I’m hoping you can help me see things clearly, because I’m starting to wonder if I’m being a jerk.
For as long as I can remember, there’s been one dish that’s truly “mine” in our family—a particular pavlova recipe passed down from my late mother. It’s a feature at every family gathering, and my children grew up knowing it as Mom’s special. It always brings back fond memories, and I feel a strong connection to my family history whenever I make it.
Now, my daughter-in-law has asked (persistently, I might add) for the recipe, saying she wants to make it for her own friends and family. She’s a good cook herself, and I think she genuinely means well, but I can’t help but feel protective. Not only is it something that reminds me of my mother, but it also feels like one of the few things I still “do” for the family, especially now that my grandchildren are getting older and don't really visit as often as before.
I've tried to explain that I'd rather keep it a special treat for family occasions, but she thinks I'm being unreasonable and a bit old-fashioned. She accused me of not trusting her, and now things feel a bit awkward between us.
To be honest, I feel torn. Part of me worries that I'm being too possessive, but another part feels like I should be allowed one little secret, especially when it means so much to me.
Am I being unreasonable for wanting to keep my family recipe to myself? Or should I just hand it over and let it go? I'd really appreciate your perspective.
Yours,
Protective Pavlova Maker
