bcoughra

This is so frustrating, but please know you aren’t alone in these struggles! Unfortunately, nothing is ever free—eh? Lol even “free” from family comes with a cost. My first suggestion is because this is your MIL, your spouse should be the one to take the bull by the horns—it will sting less. Second, I think you’ll have to level your expectations—-I find my balance and peace by strictly enforcing rules that would jeopardize or compromise safety. As long as your son will be buckled in properly to his car seat, monitored closely and safely, I personally try to let go of some of my routines and rules for the sake of familial peace. I know it’s frustrating, but cutting family out who LOVE my children just feels sad and wrong for all parties, including my kids. I’d rather my kids have tons of screentime when their grandparents visit than no grandparents. Be mindful our parents are getting older, as are our kids—one day the memories are all our kids will have. I’d hate to see you cancel your trip on account of an indulgent week spent with grandma. I’d definitely have my spouse talk about the hard line on “don’t tell your parents”—that’s a slippery slope that all adults should respect. Focus on the most harmful issues and let some of the snacking slide, lest your in-laws feel attacked and at a complete loss.