I'm the mom of two boys.
Sure, I was dying to have a girl, but no, I will not be trying for another. I feel this great responsibility in raising boys, making sure they grow up to be good men, men who do the right thing. Men who act like stand-up guys and not little man-children. I think a lot about their future. I think about the type of girl they'll end up with (or guy, if that's the case). I wonder what their future relationships will look like.
And I think about all the things their future spouses will want to thank me for.
Here are the 8 things my future daughter- or son-in-law need to know:
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1. You are beautiful, smart and amazing in every way
My mother-in-law tells me that every chance she gets, and we have a wonderful relationship. I'd like for us to have a wonderful relationship, too. So, even when I'm annoying you, remember: I think you are beautiful, smart and amazing in every way.
2. All the good things you like about him? That was all me
He tells you how pretty you look. He is kind, considerate and generous. He cleans up after himself, he knows how to cook and he has a great sense of style. That was all me. You're welcome.
The relationship with in-laws is one of the hardest you'll have to manage in your life.
3. All the bad things that drive you crazy? That was all his father
He loves video games. He's obsessed with the New York Jets. He hates fancy foods, he loves corn dogs and he would rather hang on the couch than go out. That's all Dad.
4. I love to babysit
After all, I raised two wild maniacs, ahem, I mean boys. I love kids! So, get on it already. What are you two waiting for? Make me a grandmother.
5. I only want what's best for you
The relationship with in-laws is one of the hardest you'll have to manage in your life. You were raised in one distinct way, and I raised my kids in another completely distinct way. So, there's bound to be a culture clash from time to time. But remember, I only want what's best for you—that's where I'm coming from. A good place, I promise you. And also, I think you're beautiful, smart and amazing in every way.
No matter what, no matter how difficult the topic, I am always here for you.
6. I only want what's best for your kids
So, by now you've obviously made me a grandmother. (What? You haven't? See No. 4, please.) You're going to raise your kids in the way that you think is right, just like I did. And I understand that the way we raise our kids is a reaction and response to the way we've been raised. But really, I know what I'm talking about. After all, I raised your husband, didn't I?
And also, I think you're beautiful, smart and amazing in every way.
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7. I'm always here to talk
No matter what, no matter how difficult the topic, I am always here for you. So, talk to me. If you need me to just listen, I'll do that. If you need advice, I'm (more than) happy to do that, too. Let's talk. You are special to my son, and you are special to me, too.
8. I think you're beautiful, smart, and amazing in every way
Because really, can anyone ever hear that enough?
