My Mother-in-Law’s Birthday is on New Year’s Day—During Our Visit, She Suddenly Asked Me, “Victoria,…

My mother-in-laws birthday is on the 1st of January, so of course we went round to see her. Out of the blue, she turns to me and asks,

Emily, are you expecting?

Now, I have a brilliant relationship with my mother-in-law, Janet. Ive been married for seventeen years to Tom, and we have two sons together. At the end of last year, I found out I was pregnant again, this time unexpectedly. Id planned to tell Janet on her birthday, but honestly, I was a bit nervous about it.

Its just, you know, our family lives in this tiny two-bedroom flat where its already a squeeze for the four of usbarely space to turn around as it is! Plus, at 38, having another baby felt a little daunting, especially considering my age. I couldnt help but worry that Janet might judge me or think I was mad.

But on her birthday, I knew I couldnt keep it to myself.

We went to hers, and within minutes, she whisked me off to the kitchen to help her with something. Janets an absolute gem, honestly, and she seemed to pick up on everything instantly. I barely had to say a word.

I was floored by how sharp she was, but even more by her reaction. Janet was absolutely over the moon and straight away told me shed always hoped for a granddaughter one day.

And so, with her blessing, I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl this past summer. Once again, my lovely mother-in-law didnt hesitate to lend a handshe doted on our daughter, offered support at every turn, and was genuinely invaluable. I value Janet so much, and she really is like a second mum to me.

When winter rolled around, there we were again at Janets for her birthday, only this time with our little princess in tow. Janet had started baking constantly, so we chipped in to get her a top-notch oven.

After all the fun of her birthday, as we were heading out, Janet stopped me for a quick chat. Very quietly, she told us how grateful she was to have a granddaughter at last, and that she wanted to do something special to thank us.

She announced that she was going to move into our flat, but shed be giving us her placea much roomier two-bedroom. I was actually lost for words. It just hit me again how lucky I am to have such a wonderful and wise mother-in-law who has become a true friend. Thats something you dont find every day.

Were all still living happily together, completely in sync. I honestly look up to Janet and hope that one day, Ill have the kind of wisdom she has.