Welcoming a baby brings joy but also stress. A mom worried about her mother-in-law’s smoking, fearing thirdhand smoke for her newborn. Though the mother-in-law avoided smoking near the baby, the scent on her clothes concerned the mom. Thirdhand smoke has nicotine and residues lingering indoors after smoking, risking kids’ health. Seeking advice, the mom asked if her mother-in-law could shower and change clothes before holding the baby to eliminate the risk. Balancing warmth and boundaries is challenging during visits. The Care and Feeding column advised expressing preferences, her reactions her responsibility. During visits, keeping strictness is reasonable; leniency might be needed when visiting. The post sparks discussions on Facebook, inviting differing opinions, especially from grandmothers.
Related Posts
After the Goodbye Came a Discovery I Never Expected
When my father peacefully left this world, my heart felt heavier than ever before. During those quiet days, my husband Max surprised me by bringing up the…
A Mom Opens Her Daughter’s Door — and Instantly Regrets It
I’ve always taken pride in being a “modern, trusting parent.” While others track their teens’ every move, I wanted my daughter to feel respected, not monitored. And…
Losing My Son at Sixteen: A Story No Parent Should Have to Tell
My son died in an accident at sixteen. And my husband, Sam, never shed a tear. Not at the hospital. Not at the funeral. Not in the…
Can You Really Drink Bathroom Water? What You Should Know
Ever stood at your bathroom sink and wondered whether the water is safe to drink? You’re not alone. Drinking from a bathroom faucet feels different—even though, in…
The Gift My Grandma Prepared When No One Was Listening
Some moments in life arrive quietly, almost unnoticed—until they become the ones you return to again and again. That’s what happened the day my 68-year-old grandmother wrote…
Helping a Mother at the Store Brought an Unexpected Follow-Up
I’m 43 and work mornings at a small grocery store, holding my family together one shift at a time. Life hasn’t been glamorous, but stability keeps the…
