How do I survive my mother-in-law staying with us for another 6 weeks?

Question

She is with us 4 weeks and she is driving me bonkers. I know I should calm down, treat her as a guest--she is family after all, any survivial tips?

Thanks a million to all of you who answered, you gave me a good laugh and great tips, yes she is from overseas and I wont see her for a long time after, we can't communicate and she has funny ideas, but you all made me see different ways of coping and trying to look at her in a more positive way. I like the one about me and the hubby going off for the weekend leaving her with the kids. Really, thanks to all though, sometimes just looking at a problem from a different angle makes all the difference and it has for me. Live well

Answer 1

Wow, this is a question I've pondered through various times in my life as well. As the first responder to your question said, absolutely drink heavily. But that is only step 1, you want to stop the nagging too. So I've tried feeding her food that would make the average person choke up last week's lunch, telling her the bed she is sleeping on was peed on by the dogs, and we have no other place for her to sleep, and inviting my father (her ex) for frequent visits during her stay.

Try these fun ideas, and you too can be rid of the constant, irritating rash known as MIL.

Answer 2

If she stays this long, then it must mean she comes from far away! And would probably not come again soon. Think about it in that way. Also, I suppose she is there for a total of 10 weeks, which means next week is half way. In other words, count the weeks/days etc. And why don't you sometimes just go out for an hour or so and perhaps treat yourself with coffee and a piece of cake. Or visit a friend. Just get out for short periods as often as possible. Just to keep (or regain) sanity. Anyway, GOOD LUCK!!

Answer 3

First take the situation slow...6 more weeks is a lot...but my M.I.L was here for 3 1/2 months...it was difficult. Sometimes i would hide in my shower and cry...But she comes twice a year...and stays for two weeks at a time..During those times I have gotton to know what type of person she is....I have excepted that my bread wont rise as high as it should...nor my steak is tender enough. But i have come to expect that. I know I can not change her...as i can not change myself...I have bought her little gifts when i see she's getting irritable...people can do that when they are away from home.they are not so comfortable. Even though there are times when i know something may be said....i can handle it,because i am ready...Be kind to her...no matter what being good to her will always keep your spirits up...even if it blows a little smoke...you can always turn your head and smile. Let her know you are going to the store of the market...she may need something or would like to go...it's just being kind to the person your husband had raise him to the man he is(hopefully he cool dude). She isn't there all the time and when she is gone...you'll think about the heavy times you had...but those little times of laughter will shine through those...good luck...plus a little wine wont hurt...

Answer 4

I know the feeling, my mother-in-law can't even talk on the phone without arguing, (and of course it is ALWAYS her fault, hee hee) just use little things all through out the day, that is what I do, I escape to the grocery store for milk and butter, but oops forgot the butter, I need to go back. I make lots of trips to the park with the kids or go for walks, I make myself very busy, it is amazing what you can find to do when you need to. Vent to someone, even if it is here online, you can contact me via e-mail if you would like, that always helps. Exercise, read a book. Just no matter what be busy. Ask your husband for help in keeping you away from her and remember your husband will appreciate the effort made. And when she leaves take a LONG HOT bath and have chamapgne (hmm that is not how that is spelled) good luck hon.

Answer 5

First of all "guests" don't stay for 4 weeks let alone another 6 weeks. Put her to work, have her run errands, charge her rent...lol just kidding on that one. Any ways I take my hat off to you for putting up with her this long. Good Luck

Answer 6

I pity you. I almost can't handle it after two days! Keep your smiles about you (you'll be thankful you did when it's over) and excuse yourself for some down time when possible. Run errands, take a bath, "work" on the computer, etc...do whatever it takes to spend some alone time without making it seem like you are avoiding her.

Answer 7

Has she forgotten she is a guest in your home, If she wants or does something that is not acceptable tell her that you do not accept this in your home. I know her son is part owner, but he needs to set her straight and if he doesn't you will have to. You are not a door mat don't allow her to walk all over you. You are the woman of the house she isn't

Answer 8

Go out a day by yourself or with a great friend, but dont vent about her because it will just upset you. Enjoy yourself for one full day, dinner and lunch out, you may be able to face her with a relaxed mind.... you may need to do this once a week for the next six weeks.

Answer 9

I feel sorry for you. I don't like my mother-in-law either.
You may want to go shopping alot, bingo,walks,anything to stay away from the house. Have a relative ask her over for a couple of days.

Answer 10

Remember 2 weeks left to go... look forward to that time of her leaving. and then take a good walk every night to be alone.
Good luck!