Stepping on eggshells

Moaning Turtle, maybe all human relationships involve power struggles .more or less.

I feel it is dangerous to compare your relationships with others. It leads to disappointment.
One of my D-in-Ls is now an orphan but that doesn't make her any closer to me. She would never confide in me.

Another is very close to her own DPs but this seems to make her even kinder to me - for fairness?

On my own now since DH's death, this is the first year I have felt dependant on my DC and their spouses for moral support. They have been amazing - all of them.

I think whatever happens, things change over time. My own relationship with my in-laws wasn't always perfect (I used to sulk) but I grew to love them dearly - now just her.

I am just my usual self with DILs. I don't make any special effort. I wouldn't want to come across as fake (easily done when your body language just doesn't match what you're saying).

We don't always agree, but agree to disagree. I respect their very different parenting styles, being well aware that there's never one, right way - and don't offer any advice unless it's requested.

Overall, though, I'm just very grateful indeed that they love and look after my awkward sons!