Holidays overseas have never been something I’ve felt passionately about – except over the last decade.

I’d go as far as to say I have depended heavily on these extravagant holidays in the last few years. They have kept me sane and given me the most incredible and unforgettable breaks. If money could buy a slice of peace, this would be it!

Now COVID-19 is threatening to destroy the only opportunity for harmonious family time that I ever get! And I am panicking to say the least!

The Overseas Holidays Were My Saviour

Every year I was guaranteed at least two overseas vacations plus a few cruises just for good measure. Of course, I had to put in a heck of a lot of behind-the-scenes hard work into making these incredible getaways happen. But all the time and effort I invested was entirely worth it for the few weeks of freedom I would get to experience.

My in-laws don’t know this, but I am the driving force behind the majority of their holidays. I’m the instigator – those beautifully photographed destination brochures don’t just magically turn up randomly at their house! I have them sent there!

The power of suggestion is an incredible driving force. I send the brochures, then mention a while later how much fun my friends who have just returned from that holiday hotspot have had – and POOF, just like that my in-laws are off on their next overseas adventure!

It’s a magical thing. And each time it works I feel incredibly blessed as well as relieved – but how will COVID-19 impact these life changing and completely necessary breaks that I have been oh so fortunate to have from my in-laws?

Drive Me Crazy

They won’t be going anywhere anytime soon….and their persistent meddling already started the very day they arrived back home from their last holiday – it always does.

Can I really go for months on end without a break from them? Will I survive the steady stream of belittling? How will I ever get a moment with my hubby between his work commitments, our kids and his parents all needing his undivided attention?

Imagine a life where you’re married to someone who is obligated to visit his parents prior to coming home after work most days. Their list of needs often exceeds our children’s!

I Needed The Break!

Their hilariously overbearing and interfering nature was tolerable when I was guaranteed a few solid weeks break from them whilst they went on their amazing holiday experiences. But I question if I have the stamina to cope with them for a long period of time… if only they didn’t live just down the road!

My own family only goes on holidays once every ten years it would appear… for two nights… to experience the amazing Dubbo Zoo. Will I have to start saving so that I can afford to take my family on vacations instead of waiting for the opportunity for my in-laws to go on holidays and give me a break?

Damn You, Covid-19!

COVID-19 is going to cost me big time! Emotionally, financially even physically – I mean how pray tell am I supposed to take a tribe of children away on vacation regularly? I’m not that that organised. In fact, my hubby is the one who packs for our children every time we leave home. I’m the type to walk out the door with just my phone, wallet and keys.

I do like my in-laws, really I do, I get a heck of a lot of laughter out of their shenanigans. But everyone has a limit! I mean how much constant criticism can one take without a break? Besides, the old saying ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’ most certainly rings true in this scenario.

Is There Another Way?

Maybe it’s time I started palming my little ones on to them to babysit. Not only would it give them something to do other than interfere, but it might help them to appreciate and remember what parenting young children is really like… alternatively, it may just be the gentle push they need to venture back out on holidays!

I better send them some fabulous brochures on taking a long slow trip around Australia – I mean it worked for their journey around the world… wish me luck!

Hmmm…does anyone else have suggestions for me on how to get an in-law break while overseas holidays are out of the question? Tell us in the comments below.