The holidays are often a combination of joy and stress, especially when family tensions appear. A newlywed named Nancy finds herself caught between honoring her boundaries and navigating a complicated relationship with her in-laws.

Okay, so I need advice because I’m at a complete loss. My husband, Mark, and I eloped six months ago. We knew his family wouldn’t approve, especially his mom, Susan. They’re very traditional, and Mark and I have always clashed with their expectations.

Susan was furious. She told Mark he’d “disgraced the family” and refused to speak to him for weeks. She even uninvited me from Thanksgiving! Mark didn’t even try to defend me. He just shrugged and said, “It’s just Thanksgiving, you can spend it alone. Besides, I’m sure she didn’t mean it like that.”