The Weekly Dig- ‘Remembering all moms’

Posted on Friday, May 4, 2012 at 2:24 pm

By KALI BOLLE

As hard as it is to believe, Mother’s Day is next week. For all of you who have yet to purchase gifts for that special day, you have been warned.

Don’t worry. As always, at the conclusion of this column I will throw some Mother’s Day gift ideas your way. After all, it’s my job.

But while we are on the subject of mothers, I would like to take a minute to recognize one type of “Mom” who is rarely seen in a good light – the infamous mother-in-law.

I can already hear your audible gasp of horror, misery, and maybe even aggravation as the image of your own mother-in-law pops into your head. Unfortunately, and all too often, these emotions are the first that come to mind when thinking of our spouse’s mom.

It seems, as far back as history goes, there is someone, somewhere, complaining about a “mom-in-law” who is wreaking havoc on their lives.

In fact, if you search online for inspirational quotes on mothers-in-laws, the closest to a complimentary quote you will find is a quote from American humorist Josh Billings, saying “be kind to your mother-in-law but pay for her board at some good hotel.”

If you think about it, mothers-in-law do get a bad rap. We have to remember they are just mothers themselves standing up for their children, trying to make sure their children and grandchildren have a good life. They just sometimes have a different way of showing it.

For those of us, including myself, who have children, there will come a time when we ourselves will be thrown into this category of in-laws.

So, I feel it only necessary to, as the saying goes, “put oneself in their shoes.” Yes, a mother-in-law can be crazy, overbearing, nosy, and exasperating, but she can also be supportive, loving, and even life saving.

I know from my own experience that my mother-in-law has been a Godsend. She has been there to cheer me on when I thought I couldn’t continue, and the angel who watches my girls for a few hours so Mom can regroup. Although we don’t always see eye to eye, I am happy to have her reserved as my second mother.

I also know that for better or worse, she is in my corner trying to help in any way she can and for that I say, “Thanks, Betty.”

So on this upcoming Mother’s Day, give a shout of thanks to both Mom and Mom-in-law. Remember, as mothers it is not our job to be friends, but to drive our kids, or in this case, daughters and sons-in-law, crazy watching over them and helping make life just a little bit better.

Flowers

Like flowers, being a mom is a beautiful thing, and beautiful things definitely deserve each other’s company.

Candles

Loved by women for their flattering and soothing light, and mind-clearing aromas, you can never go wrong by adding to your mom’s candle stockpile.

Gift Card

The saying goes, “it’s the thought that counts,” but the fact is, letting Moms choose their own special gift will guarantee they get what they want.

Sweet Treats

A basket of treats will make her feel great and indulge her sweet tooth urge she so often says no to.

Greenery

Apart from adding color and wonderful fragrance to her home, raising plants doesn’t result in dirty dishes and unmade beds, the way raising you did.

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