In-laws — can’t live with them, can’t live without them. There is just something especially nerve-wracking about finding out that your in-laws are coming to visit. These are, after all, your mate’s first family and they are bound to have expectations about the person their child married. No doubt they will have a lot to say about the state of your house, how you do the laundry and maybe even the contents of your refrigerator.
Here are some nuggets of wisdom on how to prepare yourself for their visit and handle the great deluge of questions, comments, and advice from your in-laws.
1. A sparkling clean house. Okay, maybe with kids and pets around this is reaching for the stars. But still, do your best. If you have mold growing out of your bathroom tiles, this may be the perfect time to get a-scrubbing. Usually, clean floors make all the difference so get ready to be mopping every day until the day they actually come. Also, take note of any cobwebs or dust-build-up in the ceilings and corners of your home.
2. A pantry and ref to die for. You’ve got to be well-stocked on the good stuff if you’re having your in-laws over. There will be no doubt a lot of nosing around about what you are feeding their son and so you’ve got to think healthy and nutritious. Some food ideas to stock up on: fruits, nuts, oats and other grains, vegetables, healthy snacks like pretzels, popcorn and dark chocolate. Now is also a good time to make sure that all your appliances are in perfect working order so make that call to refrigerator repair in Salt Lake City if you’ve been having problems with your refrigerator.
3. Talk to your kids about the visit. Nothing really serious. There’s no need for a full-blown lecture here. But it’s good to remind them about the importance of being polite, having good manners and generally not to make too much of a mess. If you have the time and your kids are into arts and crafts anyway, it would be nice to get them to write a card or a note or perhaps make a picture that they can give to their grandparents when they arrive.
4. Look your best. Of course, you want to be comfortable in your own home, but it wouldn’t kill you to make yourself look more dazzling than usual , would it? A little color on the cheeks, a dab of gloss on the lips, a new hairstyle maybe? Now is definitely not the time to be wearing your favorite shirt with the tears on the sleeves and chocolate stains down in front because it’s “comfortable.”
Most important of all, relax. Have a good time. Some in-laws can be more challenging than others, but what’s the worst they can do? You’ve already married their son and that is that. The only thing left to do is try to enjoy their company as best as you can. If all else fails, you can always put some good music on — always makes the mood more festive.
