When I married my husband, I thought myself to be one of the lucky few to have been blessed with good in-laws. Up until I gave birth to my first child, that is. My mother-in-law was suddenly a force to be recoked with. Someone who welcomes me with her smiles but whose words thrown my way can be likened to a newly-sharpened knife. A person who can't seem to stop making me feel like I am inadequate.

Except for one time, I have yet to lose my cool in front of her. However, it surely has affected my marriage. I do feel sorry for my husband who is torn between the 2 women in his life; however, I do believe that he is also the only one who can truly help bridge the gap. A fact which frustrates me no end because it has been, for years now, a never-ending struggle which does not seem to be getting any better.

For those who are blessed with good in-laws, you are pretty darn lucky.

For those who are in somewhat similar situation as myself, there might be something out there which could help us. Let's just pray that we can find the perfect solution which could be used in our own specific situations.

Amazon has Toxic In-Laws, a book which tries to help "us" manage our relationship with our in-laws without jeopardizing our marriage. I'll be updating my wishlist soon.

Boundaries for In-Laws from ChristianityToday has some tips on how to establish rules to protect your marriage.

iVillage has some very hopeful ways to get along with the in-laws.

Should you need to take the next step by going into Marriage Counselling, check this out.

Let's all try to keep an open mind and heart. Easy to say, hard to do.