in all honesty, the last few years with my MIL here for Christmas have been near perfect. My mom goes out of state to my sister's. My MIL, God love her, is so ancient that she adores and appreciates every second of every day. She is a breath of fresh air. And she slows me down, and it feels quite peaceful. H is going to fetch her on the 21st.

ETA: Isn't it funny that a 90 yr old who has buried 2 husbands and lives in a one room senior apartment can be the most joyful person you know?