Bracing myself

I am currently in the phase of bracing myself for what's to come.  This month has the potential to be very detrimental or it could be amazing.  Gaetan's Grandma is in town for the next couple of weeks (which is great!) but it either sets Wilfreda up as a nut job (which isn't different than normal, but when Lieve is in town she's 12 times worse... amazing, I know) or it can actually calm her down (because Lieve doesn't put up with her shit).  So, it's a toss up.  Then, add in the mix that Zoe is moving to Seattle but is coming to Michigan for a short visit beforehand... and that always makes Wilfreda into a basket case.

Because there are so many of the family members in town they are already trying to set things up to hang out.  Which is good and bad.  Of course, I want to see them, but seeing them all at the same time is like knowing you're walking into a storm.  It's gonna be OUT OF CONTROL.  Before, when it was just me and Gaetan we could handle it pretty well... but now we have to try and damage control for the kids too.

Already, I am seeing logistical problems with them trying to make plans for everybody without actually checking to see if they are available for those days.  And already, I've been getting it from both sides (which means they're not actually communicating with each other either).  UGH.  And here's the other problem, both Zoe and Wilfreda will tell you that they don't care but they actually do.  So, if you make a decision (because heaven forbid they would) and it's not what they were secretly thinking they sulk.  Zoe's much better about it than Wilfreda, but still.  And I want to offer my help to Wilfreda because she's trying to think of activities that are fun for kids (which is a first) but she's coming up with things that aren't age appropriate for our kids.  Like going to Michigan's Adventure.  Our kids aren't old/tall enough to ride on the kid rides, and she wants to drag Lieve around (who is 80 years old!) all day?  I told her I didn't think it was such a good idea, but she'll probably end up doing it anyway... And why should she listen to the one who has two small children and knows what they like to do?  I'm trying not to butt in and take control but some situations need it before they even start...

Zoe wants to throw a party at her mom's place for Tristan's birthday, Lieve's birthday and her going away all at the same time.  She's already invited a bunch of her friends over... which could be interesting.  Just mainly because she's known among her friends as 'the shit show', which is such a grand title to hold.... Again, if it was just me and Gaetan no big deal, but with the kids?  And out at her place in the middle of nowhere?

We are always moving in a week, Gaetan is subbing a few classes for his advisor, and taking his qualifier.  I have some weddings to play, so it's going to be a busy one.  I will definitely go into the visits with a positive attitude and pray and hope for the best!  Wish us luck... I'm sure you'll be hearing about it.  :)

JVG