My mother-in-laws birthday is always on the 1st of January, so, as usual, we headed over to see her. Out of the blue, she looks at me and asks,
“Victoria, are you expecting?”
I honestly have the most wonderful relationship with my mother-in-law, Margaret. Ive been married for 17 years now, and my husband and I have two sons. Towards the end of last year, I learnt I was pregnant for the third time. Id wanted to tell Margaret on her birthday, but I was really nervous about how shed react.
The thing is, were all packed into a tiny two-bedroom flat, which just about fits four of us as it is. Plus, I was already 38, which does feel rather old for pregnancy. If I’m being honest, I was a bit scared Margaret might judge me.
But, well, it was her birthday and I knew Id have to pull myself together.
We went over, and almost straightaway, she pulled me into the kitchen to help her out. As it turns out, Margaret is incredibly perceptiveshe clocked what was going on immediately. I didnt even need to say a word.
Her insight blew me away, but what really surprised me was her reaction. She was absolutely thrilled and told me shed really hoped for a granddaughter one day.
With her blessing, I gave birth to a lovely baby girl this summer. It was the third time Margaret became a grandmother, and she was absolutely brillianthelping with the baby and supporting us however she could. I honestly grew to appreciate her more than ever, and she really has become like a second mum to me.
Before I knew it, winter rolled around again, and there we were at Margarets, celebrating her birthday with our little princess in tow. Margaret, ever the baker, started making all sorts of treats, so we thought it would be the perfect moment to get her a really nice oven.
After the party, as we were about to head home, Margaret stopped us and asked if she could have a quick word.
She told us how grateful she was to have her granddaughter and that she wanted to thank us. So, she announced shed be moving into our flat and, incredibly, wanted us to have her two-bedroom place instead. I was genuinely speechless. It just reminded me once again what a wise and generous woman Id lucked out with as a mother-in-law. Shes truly become my friendwhich, lets be honest, is a rare gift.
Were still living together, all happy and getting on so well. I really do admire Margaret and hope that one day, I can be just as wise as she is.
