I know I am a bit late in writing about Mother’s Day :). I enjoyed reading posts by other bloggers giving various aspects about their mothers or mothers in general. I have written often about my mother in this forum, but my friend, Vani, inspired me to write about my wonderful mother-in-law.
In our almost 11-year journey together, she has been a support system for me always. When I came into the family, she seemed a little quiet. But, I felt welcomed by her from day 1. I did live just about less than 2 weeks with her before flying off with my husband to the US after my marriage. In that little time, she made me feel comfortable. I have always been a firebrand, and I tend to rebel against force. But, immature as I was, she handled me well. From praising my (then ;-)) very low culinary skills to gently telling me how different courses of rice in the South were eaten (I came from Mumbai and Ahmedabad), she was gentle. I remember spending some time with her and my fil when I flew down just 4 months later when my mom passed away. She was understanding, quiet and never intrusive. I have found her to be honest and transparent. I have always been able to communicate with her, and she is always straightforward in her conversation with me. She tells me to my face if she does not like something, and I respect her for that.
I can never forget how she looked after me when I was expecting my first son in the US. She catered to my every whim, every craving. My sister-in-law was expecting triplets at that time and must have needed her own mother so much more at that time. But, mom-in-law was there till after my delivery because she must have felt in her heart that my mother was not there so she must fill in that void for me (she never did say it in so many words). I would always be grateful to both of them for this.
With my second son’s birth too, she was there to take care of me. Her quiet and selfless presence over the years has been an integral part of my life.
She comes from a humble background but did well on her own perseverance and raised 3 kids with limited means and a full-time job. Yet, she supported my decisions to not work or work depending upon my family situation. I rely a lot on her advice. Most times, I just need to pick up a phone and she does what I ask of her. I have been especially touched when at times something I mentioned casually is remembered by her and taken care of. I remember that she always encouraged Gurdev and I to go out and spend some time on our own when she used to visit us or when we visited her. She was more than happy to babysit the kids for us. It is always a pleasure seeing her interact with her grandkids. When she comes home, she has no mother-in-law airs about her and helps me so much around the house. I wish that she could come stay with us forever, but then I understand that she needs her freedom and space too. There are so many such wonderful small incidents that have enriched my life. I feel I can be myself with her. Very few daughters-in-law can actually say that! I feel blessed that I can.
And today, she has my love and respect. I want to thank her for being such a wonderful part of my life. I cherish the relationship I share with her. Happy Mother’s Day to both of us :).
Rachna says 
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