Is a New Love Interest Worth Losing Your Family Over?

I'm sure we all have taken that walk before. What do you do? Do you become suspicious, or even question the fact if you really have found your true soul mate? Is the marriage going to be workable? Will the holidays really be that special time of the year, for all family members? Well try to take a seat, calm down and lets make a sensible guide on making your relationship last, before you get to the alter that is!

1) Be READY! Make sure you and the individual have dated at least 6 months to a 1 year before you introduce them to family members. Don't waste your time, or your families time. It's just that simple!

2)Plan the introduction! Never spring up at moms! Especially if she is the type of mom that likes her home to be a certain way, she has to prepare a meal, and she has to be mentally prepared for the meet and greet! Mothers never like to be caught off guard. They want the new woman to see what type of good, clean woman her son was raised by. Cause you know you are going to have to be somewhat like his mother!

3)Make the stay brief! Even though the meet and greet may be planned, don't overstay your welcome! Use your sense and common courtesy!

4) Talk about world events. Keep religion, politics and other debating topics off LIMITS! Some of the worst feuds have occurred over these topics. Make people very aware that you are a sociable and classy individual with much common and book sense. No one wants their son or daughter to marry a dumb jackass!

5) BE REAL! Don't say yes, or agree to everything you generally would not agree to! You don't have to be rude, but firm is good. Just firm enough to help you get your idea passed across the table like the main entree! No need to talk down to anyone either. If they don't agree, make it known, that it's cool to disagree, or meet them half way by interjecting on how you see their point, but check mate them with your solid and final analysis of the situation and end the conversation.

6) Thank the family for having you over during dinner a couple of times. PLEASE! NO BUTT KISSING! But be kind and very gracious of the evening that was planned on your behalf.

7) Look for crazy family members at this time!!!! I know it's funny, but it may give you insight onto what you are getting yourself into. Watch your mate and make sure that he/she is not a spoiled brat that listens and thrives off every word and thought of his/her parents! That could be very dangerous when it comes to your relationship! HOW? Here's one for ya! "My mother said we should wait three years after marriage to have kids!" Now do you feel me? I figured you would get the point! LOL!

8) If they don't ask...don't tell! Hell this rule applies to more than the gays in the Army! It's a life rule! Volunteering information is a bad move. Especially if it has nothing to do with the conversation at hand. Plus, it leaves you wide open to go into fields you never played in before!

I promise, you do all of this and you may be able to walk down the isle in peace. Well, unless you are marrying into a family of nuts that don't like you for no good reason! Good luck! The alter awaits you!