Being a good mother-in-law is really an art form. It may come naturally to you, or it might take some effort. The important thing is that you realize that all relationships are constantly evolving, and if you aren't exactly wild about your son-in-law at one point in time, you could find that six months down the road, he seems like a completely new (and improved) man.

Brides and grooms are maturing in their relationship right after the wedding — but many times, they're also struggling to mature in their own skins at the very same time. Technically, they're adults, but they feel like kids, and suddenly, they're coping with joint finances, in-laws, and everyday ups and downs. When your son-in-law is not exactly behaving like the Prince Charming you expected him to be, cut him a little slack. It could be that your daughter hasn't exactly been the ray of sunshine he was counting on.

Try to remember that your daughter has to learn how to be a wife now, too. You can help her when she asks; just be careful not to come between her and her new husband. Let them work through the first year before you start evaluating where their relationship is headed — and where you fit into the picture.