| Let me guess: You're spending some time with your in-laws this holiday season, but they're just getting greedy. Sound about right? The thing is, you're probably never going to be able to make everyone happy, so do the best you can by splitting up the holiday season by spending Christmas Day with one side of your family and Christmas Eve with the other. Or, if you're really daring, you can host the holidays yourselves so that everyone can gather at your place -- which should be enough to stop them from complaining. Who knows? Your parents and in-laws might end up bonding, and you could find yourself with some fun, new Christmas traditions instead of the same ol' carols-and-eggnog routine. | Why not alternate years? If your in-laws really want you all to themselves (selfish, much?), then one option is to spend this year with your folks and next year with them -- especially if your in-laws and parents live far enough away from each other that it's too long to drive in one day. You could also take a gamble and offer to "split up" for the holiday, where he goes with his family and you go with yours (it could make them realize how selfish they're being) -- but there's always the risk that that will backlash and you really will end up opening presents in separate places. My take: Offer to have New Years with your in-laws if Christmas isn't an option. If they're still upset, well, too bad! |
Are you experiencing a similar situation?
How are you and your spouse dealing? Dealing with in-laws is never easy, especially around the holidays, so comment below with your take!
-- The Nest Editors
Dec 18, 2009
See More: Ask a Guy , Couple Issues , Holiday , Love & Sex , Newlywed Central