The Best Mother In Law

It's hard to watch any sitcom without the usual mother-in-law jokes. I laugh at them, but I don't identify with them at all. My mother-in-law is GREAT (and I'm not just sucking up). She raised a caring, responsible, loving son. She embraces her children and their spouses fully, warts and all. It is a joy to be around her, really.

One of my favorite things to do when we visit is to listen to her tell a story. She has a particular talent for weaving a story together over a kitchen table and a cup of coffee. It is a lost artform. You'll laugh, you'll cry and somehow you'll learn all about the people that you've lost contact with and feel that you haven't missed a beat. She can bring a disconnected world into the perspective of small town charm effortlessly.

But don't let the softy, grandma reputation fool you. Just under the surface is a ferocious tiger if her family is endangered or perhaps if she's playing cards. Cunning and sly served best with a smile, my favorite combination.

So, it is with great pleasure today that I wish this great mother-in-law of mine a "Happy Birthday!" I hope it is filled with as much grace, love and kindness as you. I love you dearly.