I have a love/hate relationship with my son-in-law. I love having him in the family. I hate not knowing him better. Being separated by over a thousand miles discourages any real relationship. Over the past ten years I’ve spent very little time with him- a few weeks of vacation now and then, a week after Katrina’s accident. Most of our phone conversations are short and limited. We don’t have that history of a million little experiences that establish a solid relationship. However, the Bible says you know people by their fruits. So I think I can safely make a few assumptions about Rob.
He has a loving family. I was impressed that both sets of his parents attended a barbeque when we were there for vacation. It shows that they love him and respect his home and family. I have several friends with step-parents who wouldn’t be in the same county with each other even if it was for a family event. Rob also has close relationships with cousins and other family members, and that gives my grandchildren plenty of companionship and encouragement.
He works hard to support his family. He has a responsible, respectable job and he seems to do it well. He’s made sacrifices to make sure his schedule fits the needs of his family.
He’s a jock. He plays sports, coaches sports, watches sports, and talks about sports. I leave most of that to my husband, although I do like basketball, baseball, and a smidgen of golf. Football is a foreign language to me. Hockey makes me wince. But I respect Rob’s love of games. He’s a good coach and a loyal fan.
He’s a good Dad. My grandchildren seem happy and well-adjusted. They’re reasonably well-behaved. They’re involved in school activities and sports. They have a comfortable life.
He’s a good husband. My daughter seems content. She seems secure. And I think she’d tell me if she wasn’t. That’s the burden of being a son-in-law. When you get right down to it you only have one major function in life- make my child happy or I’ll make your life miserable! LOL No wonder there are so many terrible mother-in-law jokes. It’s a setup from the minute the cake is cut. But I think he can handle it. I’ve seen them together enough to know that he loves her.
He’s not perfect. I’d know more of his faults if I spent more time with him. But then, he’d also know more of mine. I’m just happy he’s agreed to stay around and give us a chance to get to know him a little better each year. Now, if I could only get him to move to Florida in time for my retirement- we could really spend some quality time together!
Anyway, Happy Birthday Rob! I’m glad you’re my son-in-law!
P.S. He’s kinda cute, too, but don’t tell him I said so. Men can be so vain.
Giggle! I think he's cute too. And his wife is adorable... one of my very favorite people who I've never met "for real". You should be proud - you did good!
Posted by: kelly edgerton | March 03, 2006 at 09:10 PM