Mom retreats into "I’m just here to cook the hot dogs" mode, which leaves you feeling guilty for her exclusion, thereby fueling your resentment toward the friend. V. The Psychological Toll of the Tent
"So, like, where is your mom sleeping?"
You know the one. The "ride or die" who just got dumped by their significant other. The friend who suddenly has no other plans. The one who looks at you with wide eyes and says, "I just need to get away. Please. Just you and me." camp with mom and my annoying friend who wants exclusive
Strategy: "Let’s take a walk to the lake, just us two, for 20 minutes before we start dinner." Mom retreats into "I’m just here to cook
"Sure thing, what's up?" she replied, still not picking up on the fact that I was about to set some serious boundaries. The "ride or die" who just got dumped
The key to survival? Before departing, let your friend know this is a family-focused trip . 2. Managing the "Exclusive" Friend in the Wild