Whether you already have a relationship with your mother-in-law or you’re still figuring it out, I’m listing 7 bonding activities that can’t go wrong. Remember not to be too opinionated or rigid in the way you think and truly enjoy the activities and the time you spend with her. The past is the past, and we can’t see the future, so just breathe and enjoy the present moment. Here goes.
1) Watch A Movie
Less talking, more bonding. I don’t mean this in a bad way, but when you don’t know what to talk about, just opt for a movie. Try going for something you both agree on. If you have very differing reviews at the end of the movie, try finding common ground and keep your extreme opinion to yourself.
2) High-Tea
Nothing gets a woman as excited as well-brewed tea and vanilla scones. Dress up a little, that’ll put both of you in a good mood and then talk your heart out over tea. If you’re feeling lazy, do tea at home. Preferably, you should make the tea. If she doesn’t like your tea, she’ll love it if you appreciate her’s and ask her to teach you. And if you’re out, don’t forget to pick up a little something (like exotic tea packets) for her to take home. She’ll love the gesture.
3) Girls’ Trip
A very smart someone recently told me that she bonded with her M-I-L over sightseeing. So, if not too far, pick a location for a day-time trip, somewhere your mom-in-law has been talking about for a while. If you can’t figure out where, ask her to help you plan the trip so you can keep her wants and needs in mind. Of course, do all the hard work yourself!
4) Spa Day
If you need to get to a no-war-zone and fast, a spa day is your best option. Chances are, you know the kind of massage she likes, if not, ask her. Find out when she’s free and surprise her with a little spa date. The burning incense and the relaxing massage will definitely cool both of you down and give you some alone-time to bond.
5) Shopping… Jewelry Shopping
If you both like shopping and if she’s a desi mom-in-law, jewelry gifting ranks as number 1. Jewelry signifies a blessing and a bond from one generation to the next. When you know she’s planning to buy you something, you might as well participate. Let her pick something for you that’s wearable for more than one occasion. That’s where Platinum EVARA comes into play, the jewelry signifies an everlasting bond. It’s something a parent can gift both, their daughter or son. So, this one’s a great option. Plus it’s wearable at any age, these delicate, contemporary and versatile designs won’t stay put in your locker. It’s something both you and your mother-in-law will agree on!
6) Get Fit!
Whether the both of you are fitness junkies or not, everyone’s constantly talking about how they want to get fit, or about a goal they set for themselves. So, two birds, one stone. Encourage each and other go for a walk or a jog. This doesn’t have to get competitive, it can be easy and slower-paced. The two of you will feel great about yourselves by the end of it.
7) Time To Get Cooking
I know, this instills fear in a lot of daughters-in-law or daughters-in-law to-be. But, it can be a fun experience if we take pressure out of the equation. Invite her over, or set a date for a fun cook out. She’ll probably want to show off some of her skills, so humor her. Let her teach you her ways, she’s wiser, older, and you might just pick up a few useful tips along the way. Laugh over your husband, her son’s, eating habits and when she’s feeling more open, maybe you can show her a little something too.
Which activity are you opting for? Tell us in the comments below! For more, follow Platinum EVARA on Facebook, Twitter,and Instagram.
*This post is in partnership with Platinum EVARA.