Why does my house turn into a reality show when my in-laws visit?

Why when my in-laws come over for more than three days does my house suddenly feel like a reality show called ‘Surviving the Extended Family,’ and I always end up being the contestant who gets voted off first? :joy: I swear, it’s like I lose control of the house, the kids start acting up, and by day four, I’m the one hiding in the laundry room eating snacks in secret. Anyone else have in-law drama? How do you survive??

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Haha, I feel this on so many levels. My MIL practically takes over my kitchen the minute she steps in. One time, she rearranged my entire spice rack ‘so it makes more sense.’ :roll_eyes: I wanted to scream but held it together. Now, I just give her a task as soon as she walks in the door, keeps her busy and out of my hair for a while! Maybe try putting your inlaws in charge of some fun activities with the kids so you can get a breather.

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Omg, I totally get you! When my in-laws visit, it’s like my husband and I are suddenly kids again in our own house. His mom comments on EVERYTHING.’ I love them, but by day three, I’m fantasizing about sneaking off to a hotel. Once, I tried to be nice and take them on a little sightseeing trip, thinking it would get them out of the house… yeah, big mistake. Everyone ended up cranky, and I swear I was more exhausted than if I had just stayed home! My new strategy? Plan their visit around a long weekend so there’s an END date. And wine… lots of wine.

Girl, same. Just give me strength.

You’re doing great, mama! It’s hard when the in-laws swoop in, but remember, you’re the boss in your house. Next time, try setting some boundaries ahead of time like, ‘Oh, we have a system for the kids’ bedtime routine’ or ‘this is how we usually do things.’ You’ve got this!