Site of the Day: Family Gathering Survival Kit

For those of us in the U.S., today is Independence Day, a holiday to celebrate our freedom from tyranny. Ironically, it often involves getting together with people who make us feel oppressed.

Spending too much time this weekend with unsupportive relatives, stressful situations, inappropriate foods, and scoodgy kids can leave you longing to make your own declaration of independence. Since it's not likely you can secede from the family, have a little fun imagining what you could do with the Family Gathering Survival Kit to get you through those grueling gatherings.

Even if you mostly get along with your extended family, you'll probably find something here you wish you could stash in your bag of tricks. Who hasn't wished for a little duct tape when the conversation gets out of hand?

What would you like to pack in your imaginary Family Gathering Survival Kit? Share your additions in the comments.

_{Photo by Terri Mauro}