Inlaw Overload

I don't really mind my in-laws. For one thing, they don't live nearby so I don't see them very often, and for another thing, there's not that many of 'em left anymore. And for yet another thing, I actually like them. I did have the mother in law from hell (truly, she was not a nice person, and she immediately and steadfastly hated me), but she's no longer with us. I actually had TWO mother-in-laws -- one step, one blood -- but the remaining MIL only sends Christmas cards and occasional e-mails. My husband's remaining family is his 3 brothers, all of whom I genuinely like, and I genuinely like their wives and families.


I'm getting ready to have a whole new batch of in-laws as my son is getting married this fall. I like them too --quite a lot, actually. I love my future daughter-in-law to pieces. We had the future family-in-law over for dinner last night, and it was a nice evening. Good food, (my husband cooked) great company, and of course, I always enjoy spending time with my son and his fiancee. They're expecting a baby soon, so the 2 first time "grandmas to be" have lots to talk about.


I like to entertain but let's face it, I'm no Martha Stewart -- I am not the world's most gracious hostess. It's like I wasn't born with the entertaining gene. See, I pretty much really mean it when I tell my guests to make themselves at home. In my house, that means: Get your own damn drink. If you're cold, turn up the heat. I have no idea if the hall bath is about to run out of TP but feel free to rummage around for another roll. That sort of thing. So when you come to my house for dinner, please don't think I'm being rude -- I just think of you as family!


Also, as you may know about me, I prefer to spend my weekends wearing sloppy clothes, eating badly and watching all the stuff I recorded on the DVR the previous week. So much as I enjoy company, well, I have to at least put on a bra when people come over.


But now it's Sunday, and I have the day to recover, right? Oh no. Suddenly I have to figure out what to feed 2 of my husband's brothers and their families in less than an hour! All have come to town due to their Uncle Jim's recent stroke. (Prayers appreciated. Jim is 85 and prognosis isn't good) Like I said, I love them all, and am glad to see them, but two in-law encounters are a little much for one weekend!




Thank goodness for the 3 day weekend. I'll be spending Monday on the couch. Don't call me. And don't even think of dropping by to visit because I don't want to have to put the bra back on.