I'm sorry you have to deal with this, and wish I could offer some advice that would help. I have gotten criticism for my choice in pets. I grew up having a lot of pets, always have, and have received criticism from my family, though not quite as bad as what you experienced. Like you, I mostly just avoid the topic with certain people I know would react badly. I’m just waiting for some of those family members to find out about the snakes I have now… They may not react badly (my in-laws were surprisingly cool with it and even wanted to see the snakes! I was nervous about them, because my MIL tends to be more like you described your mother: manicures, pedicures, hair just so, appearances are important, etc), but past experience has me weary. My parents have at least been accepting, even if they don’t like it. My dad’s response is, “Well if it makes you happy” and my mom’s response is “Yuck! Just keep them away from my granddaughter.” Not the greatest response, but at least not condescending either. Hopefully in time your mother will come around and at least accept your interests, even if she doesn't like it or understand.
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