Problems with the Mother in Law?

We weren't at all alike, but got on well, probably because we respected each other and both bit our tongues a lot! She was a wonderful, loving grandma to our children, which was all that counted in the end.

My DH was a bit of a rebellious child - number 3 of 4 boys. When I came along, the wife of the eldest son was the favourite but, eventually, she showed her true colours and I became the reliable one.

We never had any animosity in the early days but by the time she died we were firm friends. I was so touched when she left me her engagement ring and, when he gave it to me, DFiL told me I had taken on her mantle as the strong, reliable woman in the family.

I am actually nothing like as strong as her (nor as scary!) but it made me feel wonderful.

I may not have felt any affection towards my MiL, nor did we have much in common in terms of education, interests and so on. But I come of a generation and culture where we were taught to be polite and ‘do unto others’.

I have a very poor opinion of those who cannot exhibit basic good manners towards in laws.

I have had two MILs and they were both wonderful, loved them to bits. The first was a Yorkshire lady, 4'10" so was tiny but she took no nonsense and was good fun. We stayed friends even after I divorced her son.
The second was Welsh, from Aberfan. Different personality but we still got on well and spent a lot of time together.

I disliked my first DIL, stayed quiet about a lot not to upset my son. They eventually went their separate ways once he'd had enough of her ways.
His second wife I liked, but after said I didn't agree with them not telling his children they were getting married until after the event, I was told his family was none of my business. Not seen or spoken to any of them since - 10 years.

My MiL has been Co this year.

My ex MIL was a weird cat lady. My current MIL was abusive to my DH when he was a child and, although I'm polite to her, there is no relationship as such.