DEAR ABBY: My sister-in-law, "Barbara," and her family are avid karaoke fans. They've had a machine for 10 years, and every time we go to their home, no matter the occasion, they sing at the drop of a hat.
When relatives visit from out of town -- they sing. They sing at Christmas, birthday parties, wedding receptions -- and the volume is set so high that it's impossible to carry on a conversation. If you leave the room to talk, they'll turn on the intercom so the music is carried throughout the house. It's true they encourage others to join in -- but they never give up the microphone.
Barbara is not the kind of person who takes criticism well. Some members of the family tease her about singing so much, but she doesn't take the hint.
Please help me find a way to convince Barbara that we don't need to be "entertained" all the time. -- TONE DEAF IN INDIANA
DEAR TONE DEAF: That may be impossible. We both know you can't change them. They have show biz in their blood. Wear ear plugs if necessary and be grateful they don't have a cover charge and a two-drink minimum.