Dealing With Your In-Laws

If You Receive Double Holiday Invitations...

Compromise and alternate holidays. If you find yourself celebrating every holiday twice―at the expense of your time, budget, and waistline―it may be the moment for a compromise. Decide with your husband on a schedule that gives both families equal time, and let everyone know the decision. Try alternating holidays yearly. "If parents are acting like children, share with them our favorite preschool motto: 'You get what you get, so don't get upset,'" say authors Liz Bluper and Renée Plastique. And don't make false promises. If you don't intend to go to the holiday potluck, don't lead your in-laws to think otherwise; it could cause resentment. Be straight from the start. Still getting grief? Host the gathering in your home and invite both sets of parents to join you.