Once in our lives, we asked my mother-in-law for help, and nothing seems to turn out right with her. She was always the one most eager for me to have a child, yet now she refuses to spend time with her granddaughter. I understand she doesnt have to, since she wasnt hired as a babysitter, so we never really asked much from her.
When Sophie was little, my mum and I looked after her. As she grew older, it was mostly my mum. This time, however, my husband and I finally managed to plan a much-anticipated holiday: four whole days away, just the two of us, without our five-year-old daughter. My mum was at work, so we had to ask my mother-in-law for the favour. We suggested that she didnt need to take Sophie to nursery, but could bring her over to her house instead. Yet, after just one day, she called up, complaining.
You see, Sophie is terribly rude, shes not a proper lady at all. She doesnt hold her fork correctly, refuses to practise her reading, doesnt want to watch concerts with her grandparents, and to top it off, she used felt-tip pens on the sideboard. We know exactly what our daughter is like lively, energetic, independent. Shes perfectly capable of entertaining herself, but it sometimes leads to her trying out all my makeup or tearing up her dads favourite book. Thats precisely why we asked them to keep a close eye on her, not leave her alone in the next room pretending she doesnt exist.
My mother-in-law insists we come and collect our daughter immediately, threatening to make a scene for her son otherwise. What are we supposed to do? Were in the Lake District, two days left before we return, and coming back early isnt an option. We wanted a relaxing break, but instead were getting scolded over the phone.
Has my mother-in-law forgotten just how restless and stubborn children can be? Shes told countless tales about my husbands childhood, and he definitely wasnt an angel. Yet now, she cant manage to look after her granddaughter for just half a week apparently our daughter is simply too naughty for her.
Sometimes, those who once wished for something grow overwhelmed when it finally arrives. We all need patience and compassion, especially with children after all, theyre just learning how to navigate the world.
