Two mothers-in-law get together to take care of their grandson...No, it's not the beginning of a comedy routine. I had been hesitant to visit while my daughter-in-law's mother was at her house helping out, but was afraid if I didn't come it would seem rude not to see her. My son had requested I help out on the Friday when the baby isn't at the sitter's and normally he has him. Since the mother raised three daughters, I couldn't see that she would have any trouble taking care of one 3 month old.
But when I got there I immediately knew I would be helpful, and I proceeded to hold the little guy while she brushed her teeth and so forth. He had a great morning and we took him for a walk in the stroller, but in the afternoon he got fussy and I know I helped by walking him, holding him, and rocking him. It took two of us to keep the day pleasant for baby.
When my daughter-in-law returned from teaching, she was exhausted and had had a parent email a complaint about a math problem, so it was great we could support her and be with her in solidarity until my son returns in two days. And her mother was grateful and super friendly, so my doubts about horning in on her time with baby were dissolved. I did the right thing. And I tactfully left early this morning to drive home because my daughter-in-law's sister is flying in for the weekend to see the baby and her mother. I disappeared before I could crowd up the scene.
Right speech and right action made me feel useful, which is what I aspire to be.
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