Mothers-in-law play an important role when it comes to the success of our married life. When you chose to love your husband, you’ve also made your decision of accepting your in-laws.
I am fortunate enough to be one of those who are blessed with a smooth relationship with my mother-in-law. However, that is not always the case for everybody. When my husband and I talked about this, we figured we could actually do something to help you save yourself from having a melodramatic relationship with your in-laws (most importantly with your mother-in-law).
Here are 5 specific things that you have to avoid saying:
1. “I make your son’s favorite dish.”
Although it is true that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, I recommend you do not rub it in your mother-in-law’s face. She’s excited to cook for her son during your weekend visits and it would definitely brighten up her day if she sees how much her cooking is appreciated. Give her that. Let’s just say it will help if you accept the fact that your husband loves both your cooking and his mom’s.
2. “You’ve raised a jerk.”
Even if you feel you get along pretty well with your mother-in-law, you need to remember that she may not be the best person to call whenever you and your husband have a fight. It is more likely that her loyalty will be fall in her son’s favor and she wouldn’t like it if she feels that you are criticizing the way she raised her son.
3. “Your son’s great in bed.”
This is a big no-no. Even if your mother-in-law started a “racy chit chat”, you should spare her everything about your sex life.
4. “I don’t let the kids do that.”
Whether it’s watching TV, staying up late or those computer games, let your in-laws spoil their grandchildren once in a while. Yes, you have your rules at home but as long as it’s not causing harm and not an everyday occurrence, let your children enjoy making memories with Grandma.
5. “Your fried chicken is delicious. It tastes a lot like the one they serve at my favorite restaurant.”
You may think you’ve done a great job by saying her dish is comparable to the food at your favorite restaurant. But guess what? That’s just a great recipe for a disaster! Point here, never compare! It is always better if you do not compare her cooking to anyone’s. It will also make her happy if you end your meal by expressing how much you loved the food and that you’d be delighted if she shares the recipe with you. That’s an awesome tip right there! <3
These are just suggestions; they do not guarantee the ideal relationship between you and your in-laws that ideally, many couples yearn for. Remember, a relationship is always a two-way street: At the end of the day, you cannot deny the fact that this woman is your husband’s first love and she may have trouble accepting the fact that another person could do the job of taking care of their son other than her. Be patient, in time, you’ll need to deal with your daughter-in-law, too!
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