Beau-Famille

Beau-Famille is the French word for one's in-laws.  The word literally means "beautiful family".  When I heard this from my French instructor, I was in awe of the implications.  I call this "sweet talkin".  If any relationship is one of complication and complexities, it is the in-law relationships.  This is true across all cultures and since the beginning of time.  It is more rare and precious to have a delightful, enjoyable relationship with your In-Laws than one of drudgery.  I am beginning to think the French have learned something Southerners practice quite frequently- the power of sweet talkin'.  Not in a manipulative way, but in a sincere way used to honor the other party.  From now on, I am going to refer to Joe's mother as beau-mere which means "beautiful mother".  Adding a little sugar to my talk (same way I prefer my iced tea).