| Adapted from an online discussion. Dear Carolyn: In past years, my daughter-in-law has been the family scheduler for my son’s whole family. I would text or call her to set up plans, whether for weekend outings or holidays. Starting this year, my son informed me that his wife was suffering from burnout and so he would be handling all planning for family get-togethers going forward. I love my daughter-in-law dearly and fully support her stepping back to protect her mental health. I still remember how hard it is juggling schedules with young kids! The problem is that my son, frankly, is terrible at this role. He has never been a planner. I can text him repeatedly to ask about getting together and not hear back. This has been frustrating me all year, and we’ve seen less of their family. For example, my son dropped the ball on Thanksgiving planning and we had to hold separate celebrations with his and his sister’s families. Adding to my frustration, I know that if I texted my daughter-in-law, we could iron things out in a day! But I don’t want to bother her after being expressly told she didn’t want that burden. Every woman knows the pain of getting stuck with extra labor because you’re “good at it.” Any suggestions? I have some idea of what commenters will say; you all will have to trust this is not the couple’s quiet way of avoiding family get-togethers. We all have a great relationship, and if they wanted space, then my son would just ask and be granted it! — Frustrated | 
