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Oct 25, 2023Liked by Mari, the Happy Wanderer

I hardly know what to say.... I am so flattered, so honored .... and so lucky! I have 4 daughters-in-law...each warm, wonderful and accomplished. Each lovely, friendly with the others, and a great match for the son o’ mine she chose! Can’t get luckier than that!!! Thanks Mari for this beautiful birthday presentπŸ’•πŸ’•πŸ’•πŸ’•!

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Oct 25, 2023Liked by Mari, the Happy Wanderer

Oh Mari once again you nailed it. I love this piece, and wish I knew Louise. Also, I agree with your Halloween description. I always say Halloween in our most democratic holiday. It reinforces our ideas about trusting neighbors, sharing what we have with those in need (yes, children need treats!), and welcoming strangers into our lives.

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Oct 25, 2023Liked by Mari, the Happy Wanderer

I hope to be a MIL one day, my son is dating a lovely young woman who, for our first time meeting, was brave enough to join our family getaway which included his twin brother and my sister visiting from the UK. She shared a small air bb with us for 4 days. I also greeted her with a hug and she presented me with a game and a bottle of wine! I am trying out vegetarian dishes so that when she comes for Thanksgiving I can offer her more than just sides!

Food was a big part of my relationship with my own MIL, she was French and a wonderful cook. Her apple tart was a must have at every occasion. It was so delicious that, when several years after she passed, I was on a work retreat in the south of France we were served family style our dessert of apple tart. I burst into tears at my first bite, it was exactly like her tart, through my tears I explained why I was emotional and my colleagues offered me the final slice….that had not been my intention!!! My husband had a good relationship also with my mum, even after he decided to move our family 3000 mikes away for work. Something I know your mom and MIL also experienced. I hope that I can be a good MIL if given the opportunity, I may come back to the advice you have given here for guidance should I be so lucky. Did I say by the way, we really like Baobao, she is Chinese American, and love that any children they may have will be first generation American on both sides of the family.

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