To My Mother-in-Law, Who Raised the Man I Love :: I Appreciate You!

I know you probably wondered about the kind of woman I would be to your son. As a mom myself, I totally get it. A young, single mom to a little girl swoops into your (even younger) son’s life and heart . . . I’m sure it probably was really scary to watch and to have no clue if his heart would be broken or cherished.

And if I’m honest, I had my own fears and reservations. Mother-in-law relations are often portrayed as fraught with drama, ill-will, or at the very least, just mutual disdain. Meeting you was one of the most nerve-wracking things I’d ever done, probably because I already knew how much I loved your son and I wanted so desperately for you to love me too. But I’m grateful that every fear, every hesitation never had to be realized – with you, I’ve been blessed with an amazing mother-in-law.

I don’t take it for granted that I won you as my “mother-in-love” — as we affectionately refer to you. I’m happy to say that our story has been one of joy. As a matter of fact, I’m grateful that I truly get to consider you a friend.

You’re often my first call when the kids do something that (I think) is hilarious or say first words. It’s because, well, NOBODY will ever be more excited than you! I can always count on your excited squeal from the other side of the phone. That pure joy is one of my favorite things about you! You NEVER get tired of hearing my tales of our days, even when I have already told them a million times.

You’re a baby whisperer, yummy salad maker, and the most glam grandma I know. You’re stylish, elegant, and graceful. I’ve learned so much from you!

And the thing that I’m most grateful for is the amazing man you raised. You have no idea just how great a job you’ve done, and I get to reap all the benefits. Your son, my husband, is confident and strong but also gentle and ever-loving. He cherishes my heart and encourages me, and he’s an amazing daddy to our crazy crew. So much of that is because of you and the decades of love and confident assurance you poured into him. I’ll never be able to repay you for that. Is there a place beyond grateful?

So to my first draft pick, lottery win of a mother-in-law: I love and appreciate you. I wish every daughter-in-law could have a mother-in-law who loves her as you love me!