10 Things I've Learned from My Mother-in-Law (Plus Give-Away)

Big news in the Wildenberg household this past week. Jacob and Jaime got engaged!

I noticed comments on Facebook or group  text messages like, "Jaime you have always been a part of our family." and "Now I can call you my sister!" 

And that is just a small sample of the sentiments expressed by Jake's three sisters. Jaime has a  great relationship with each one.

Tom and I know  the "Double J" are a really good match. They are growing together both personally and  spiritually.

I want to be a supportive, loving, and encouraging mother-in-law.

Thankfully I have an excellent role model in Marianne.

Without either of us realizing it, Marianne has been training me for this role since Tom and I got married.

Here is what my mother-in-love has taught me:

1. Leave space for the new couple to grow.
2. Keep priorities straight: The couple first (the marriage) then the extended family.
3. The relationship is adult to adult. (Not adult to adult-child).
4. Foster a relationship that is independent of the one with the son.
5. When asked, offer suggestions gently. 
6. Pitch in when needed.
7. Take time for "girl-talk" and sharing hearts.
8. Love and delight in the grandkids (when the time comes).
9. Be available while respecting  privacy. 
10. Have fun together.

I love being with and talking to Marianne. She makes it easy for me to share my heart with her. We laugh together... a lot. 

She has mentored me well for this new role.

Thank you Marianne, my mother- in- love and my friend. 

Her children arise and call her blessed. 

Proverbs 31: 28a 

What have you learned from your mother-in-law?

by,
Lori Wildenberg

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