Dealing with In-Laws

My MIL was imperfect. She made huge mistakes in her parenting and was often difficult to deal with. I was often overwhelmed by her and avoided spending extended periods with her because I couldn't take it.

She was also, despite her flaws, a loving person with a generous spirit. She was a safe haven when I needed one- like when I left my parents' home in tears on Christmas night and knew that I could drive straight to MILs where I would be welcome and loved and treated with kindness.

We lost her two years ago. She used to nag me about when DH and and I would have a baby and at one point I told her we just couldn't to shut her up. I wish with all my heart that she was here now. She'd make me nuts and I'd probably refuse to answer the phone half the time and wish she'd back off. I know that. If she was here I wouldn't appreciate her.

I wish she was here. I wish she was here to take for granted and to roll my eyes at and to dogde phonecalls from. I wish she was here to give me parenting advice I'd never take. I wish she was here to bug me about a thousand things that don't matter. I wish, most of all, that she was here to light up at the idea of her grandchild.

I wish I had not wished quite so often that she'd go away. It's not nearly as peaceful as I'd thought it would be.

I don't know that there's a point here or a moral or a lesson or advice for anyone to follow. I don't know that there needs to be.

But today? Today I miss my MIL.

Because on the top of the board page is this...

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Who knew those marriage vows also applied to your spouse's family?
A good relationship with your husband's clan can make your life much happier. Whether your bond with them is supportive, generous, frustrating or full of judgment, you can talk about it here.

She also admits to knowing what it can be like when they drive you crazy so it hasn't always been hugs and kisses.

I think that sentiment was very sweet of you. I love my DILs' and think they'd take it harder if I passed than my own sons.

I'm very blessed to have wonderful sons' and DILs' and thought your post was beautifully written.

She must be smiling in Heaven at this very moment. I know I would be. Hugs, Lu  :)