“Uninvited Guests: Woman Stunned as Mother-in-Law Brings Home a Stranger—What Happened Next Will Shock You!”
The OP chose not to say anything to her MIL in this story. Whether that’s because she didn’t have time to consider a response due to shock or was afraid of insulting her mother-in-law, she didn’t explicitly tell her MIL that she and her husband would prefer she not impose on them like this.
Tannehill Tyson says that communicating your boundaries to unwanted guests is very important. And it doesn’t necessarily have to end in an unpleasant confrontation.
“Etiquette is all about putting others at ease, it is possible to be polite while setting boundaries,” she explains. “When a guest shows up unannounced, and it is inconvenient, be honest and let them know you are not prepared for a visit and would like a text or phone call in advance,” Tannehill Tyson suggests.
“So, you’re off the hook, no need to hide, pretending you are not home. Be confident and set those boundaries, politely. Keep in mind, there are individuals who grew up where unannounced visits were both acceptable and encouraged,” she reminds us. “Be a gracious guest by giving a heads-up so they can prepare for your visit.”
When you think the guest has overstayed their welcome, there are also polite ways to signal to them that they should leave. “Simply communicate how you appreciate the visit, wonderful conversation and you look forward to the next visit,” the etiquette expert explains.
She gives a possible script: “‘I have certainly enjoyed your company and look forward to the next time.’ Establish the visit time from the beginning: ‘It’s so great to see you, I will have to end our visit by 4:30 PM today,’” Tannehill Tyson suggests. “Or ‘I’m so glad we could connect today! I’m available until lunchtime today.’ There is no need to give a reason for the time limit unless you choose to do so.”
People advised the woman to be curt with her MIL and stop indulging her unwanted visits
