A reader shared how her mother-in-law moved in “for two weeks” after a bathroom flood… and never left. Months later, her presence has overtaken the home, leaving the daughter-in-law questioning her marriage, her boundaries, and her sanity.

Jenna’s Story (Short Version)
Jenna, 36, let her mother-in-law stay temporarily. Seven months later, she’s still there—redecorating the house, tossing Jenna’s belongings, and acting like the home is hers. She even changed her mailing address to their address and told someone she’s moving in “for good.”

Jenna’s husband feels guilty and enjoys having his mom around, leaving Jenna feeling trapped in her own home.

She loves her husband—but she’s losing her space, her voice, and her peace.

Was she wrong to expect a temporary stay to actually be temporary?

Advice in Brief

1. Your feelings are valid.
Losing control of your own home is deeply destabilizing. It’s not selfish to want boundaries.

2. You and your husband must get aligned.
You need a private, honest conversation about how this affects your mental health and your marriage.

3. Set real boundaries and timelines.
A plan for her move-out, defined private space for you and your husband, and—if needed—counseling or legal guidance.