by tinaxduzgen

With the Thanksgiving holiday just next week, my mind has wandered toward the many “extended family” messes that often erupt this time of year. I have to say that I’m so grateful to have in-laws who have blessed me and not tested me when the holidays have rolled around.

Unfortunately, I do remember how my parents had trouble with this one.

Invariably when the whole family got together there was usually some kind of tension between my mother and my grandmother—her MIL (mother in law). I didn’t completely understand it as a child, but it usually made for a very tense and awkward holiday dinner for everyone.

What about you?

What do you dread about your extended family or in-laws coming to visit?

What can you do now that would help you to deal with not just that turkey roasting in the oven, but the “turkey” that comes to visit?

Do you need to get better organized?

Do you need to learn to set some boundaries in a way that won’t offend your Aunt Bertha or your MIL Millie?

Do you need to adjust your expectations—accepting that things may not go as planned?

Do you need to “prepare your heart” and not just the dressing for this T-Day dinner?

Let me know your thoughts on these questions. Feel free to problem solve or confess in the comment section—whatever you need most!

And before you get away … check out my sister, Faith’s Sweet Potato Casserole recipe here. Yum! It’s one of my personal faves at our family gatherings! Enjoy!

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Colossian 3:15 (NIV)

Linking up with NOBH, Imperfect Prose, Women Living Well, and New Life Steward