My husband’s sister-in-law and her family come to visit us every year. I am glad to see her. From the first day we met, we managed to find a common language, so we maintain a warm relationship.
Before every time she arrives, however, I am insanely anxious. More than that, I’m afraid of ruining everything. She arrives and starts scrubbing and cleaning everything. It’s like a raccoon rinsing away from the sink.
She’s either washing something or rubbing it. My husband and I think my sister-in-law probably needs to see a psychologist by now. My mother-in-law calms me down by saying that she doesn’t have any problems, she’s just been the ultimate cleaner since childhood. However, I’m sure it’s nervous. She sits at the table – she rubs the table, went to wash her hands – she clung to the sink, even though everything is clean. It’s gotten to the point where she’s washed all the dishes from the sideboard twice in one week that no one ever uses.
Anyway, getting through this nerve-wracking wash and not snapping is a challenge. I’m trying to hang in there and not spoil the mood. Besides, I’m even beginning to complex that I’m not perfect clean, once a relative finds something to pick on. In general, I’m waiting to meet my sister-in-law – wish me luck.
