DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been married 10 years. Half of his family are smokers. Every year, there has been a family gathering at his dad's house. Since the birth of my first child, smoking has become forbidden in that home.
This year, however, the party will be held at the home of another where smoking will be permitted. I can't handle smoke. It gives me a sore throat and I cough for a week after exposure. Because of my reaction and for the health of my children, I don't want to attend. (When we get home we have to immediately shower and launder our clothing to get rid of the smell.)
My husband is adamant that we should attend and bring the kids. He was raised around smoking and doesn't see what the "big deal" is. What can I say or do to convince him not to force me and our children to be exposed to the health hazards of secondhand smoke? Am I being unreasonable because it's only one night a year? -- HATER OF SMOKING IN WEST VIRGINIA
DEAR HATER OF SMOKING: I think so. Much as you might like, you can't raise your children in a bubble. I would hate to see you isolate your children from their aunts, uncles, cousins and any grandparents who are still alive during their once-a-year holiday celebration.
If you would prefer not to attend because you can't stand the smell of the smoke, stay home. But do not prevent your children from knowing the family. Assuming they don't have health issues, one evening of exposure to cigarette smoke shouldn't be harmful.