When it comes to avoiding a visit to your mother-in-law, honesty and open communication are generally the best policy. However, if you're looking for a polite and non-confrontational excuse, consider these options:
Prior Commitment: You can say that you have a prior commitment or engagement that you cannot reschedule. This could be an event, an appointment, or even spending time with your own family.
Feeling Unwell: You can say that you're not feeling well and don't want to risk spreading any potential illness. This excuse is considerate, and most people will understand the need to stay home if you're not feeling your best.
Work Obligations: You can mention that you have work-related responsibilities or deadlines that need your attention during that time. Many people can empathize with work demands.
Traveling: If you live far away, you can say that travel is not feasible at the moment due to various reasons, such as tight schedules, financial constraints, or other travel plans.
Household Emergency: You can state that an unexpected household issue or emergency has arisen, requiring your immediate attention and making it impossible to visit.
Personal Rest Day: Express that you need a day to recharge and have some personal time for self-care and relaxation.
It's important to note that using excuses regularly or dishonestly may strain relationships and erode trust over time. Whenever possible, it's better to communicate openly and honestly with your mother-in-law about your feelings and concerns. If there are genuine reasons for not visiting, being transparent about them can lead to better understanding and a more supportive relationship.