Caution: Holidays Ahead!

Okay, so what's the first thing that pops in your line of vision when you hear "the holidays are around the bend"?

You cringe anticipating the inevitable crash when the in-laws (or in-laws-to-be) appear in the lane beside you. You know how hard it is for "Mother" to stay in her lane on the tight curves just ahead. And, "Dad" can be hard to read. The chaos has set in before get your pace set. Now what?


They cramp your style, you're forced to slow down or stop your normal habits and step out of your beloved, comfortable ride. You're feeling exposed, suddenly naked as your every movement and word is in full view.

But wait! Before downshifting, know there are some things you can do to "stay in the zone" without compromising your style and still keep your wife happy.

Communicate. Find out what she expects of you during this time. Knowing the race strategies helps your team stay ahead. Share your expectations of the holidays.

"How's that?" you say.

Keep it simple.

"Honey, when your parents are here tomorrow - what did you imagine I'd be doing while you and your mom are cooking?"

Or, offer you own.

"While you are busy in the kitchen, I plan to watch the game."

Compromise. Okay, so she wasn't into the idea of you hanging out in the Man Cave while she put together the meal. She imagined you would be frosting the cookies and washing dishes.

Hold on. Don't drop out yet. Stay in the race, in a relative place of comfort and maintain your own path.

"What if I manned the bar, I'll keep the drinks flowing," you might say.

Not you? Then try,

"Hey, how about I peel the potatoes and keep the trash empty?"

The idea here is to keep the peace, work with your partner and above all, enjoy the ride!