I didn't get very lucky when it came to mothers. I didn't get to have that close mother/daughter relationship many of my friends had with theirs. Not blaming my mom, just stating facts.

I did, however, get lucky when it came to mothers-in-law. My ex-MIL and I hit it off the day we met, and we've remained close throughout all these years. She always sided with me when I fought with my ex, lol. My ex lives in California, so she rarely sees him. She's "retired" now (handed over her church to her daughter) and her other kids are busy with their lives. She's all mine now.

With my current mother-in-law, we get along so well it's almost scary. When my sister met her, she laughed and said "looks like you got the mom you always wanted." When my MIL spent an extended period of time with us, we were practically inseparable. Our likes/dislikes are almost identical, and we can practically finish each other's sentences. I was a little worried it might creep out my husband.

She lives in the northeast mountain region of Arizona. Our nephew's little boy in Phoenix calls them "Grandpa and Grandma in the trees." My SIL says they're the toughest ones on the mountain - oldest ones still healthy and working.

They bought an outdoor hot tub recently, so we sent them robes for their upcoming birthdays - decided on monikers instead of monograms.

Mom was a little puzzled when she opened the package and pulled out a robe that said "Jane." They both started laughing when Dad pulled out the other one that said "Tarzan."

They liked their gifts.

i'm so happy for you kathy.

can't say that i have been very lucky in the inlaw department.

Kathy,

That is a wonderful message.

I am happy I have a great relationship with our SIL. He has always called me Mom, and I love it. When it come a time he needs a Mom figure he will call on me before his own(which I feel sorry for her).

There was a period of time he was seperated from our daughter and he was still very close to us. I am just quiet happy they are back together.

Darlene

Thanks Curious

Darlene

I'm glad to hear you have a close relationship with your son-in-law, though it was probably a little frustrating when your daughter was separated from him. Glad they were able to work things out.

My father was very particular. He liked my ex, but not after he found out my ex hurt me. He never liked anyone else. When I started dating my husband and introduced him to my father, I was amazed at the look of approval on his face. My "Ray of sunshine" helped me care for my parents, and dad acted as if the sun rose and set by him. Mom even liked him. Cracks me up when my husband says mom was "sweet." HAAAAA! Oh well, glad he gave her a thrill.

When my dad's condition became grave, it was obviously very stressful. I got into a heated argument with Ray about hospice care - I wasn't ready to sign him over.

Dad called me into his room and with the little breath he had left told me not to do anything to lose my boyfriend. Wasn't fair - he ALWAYS took my side when it came to arguments with boyfriends. I tried to defend myself by saying he's too stubborn, but dad said "So are YOU - find a way to compromise. Now send in Ray."

He gave Ray the same lecture.

I do believe a loving parent knows what's best for his/her child.