I've NCed for this but to give you a bit of background, DH and I have been living with MIL for the last 4 months whilst we've had building work. MIL can be very difficult but we didn't have any other options (and initally thought it would only be for a month or two) and she really likes having us as she hates being on her own.
I get on okay with her but have been feeling suffocated not having my own space (I'm an introvert and need it). The only way I've coped is knowing I'll soon be back in my own place.
A few days ago MIL announced that she'll be moving into our new flat with us. She’s sold her flat and decided she’ll stay with us whilst her new place is renovated. DH and I are in a very difficult position as we can't really say no seeing as she's had us for the last 4 months (and DH's brother lives abroad so she can't stay with him), but the thought fills me with dread and I don't know how I'll cope. Our flat is small (1 bedroom) and open plan so there'll be nowhere to escape.
MIL doesn't work or have many interests so is always there and she has a habit of sitting on the sofa staring at DH and I, and listens in to all our conversations, phone calls etc. I can't do anything without her watching me/asking inane questions and it's driving me to despair! I hate coming in and not be able to curl up on the sofa and relax (she even sits and stares at us whilst we're watching TV!) and if we go out she waits up until we’re back.
I was really excited about moving into our new flat so I'm feeling gutted. We were planning on having lots of friends round for dinner and a big housewarming and now won't be able to whilst she's with us (which could be many months!). I won't even be able to have my own DM to stay as MIL gets really jealous when we see her (which isn’t even very often as she lives down south).
I feel like I'm walking on eggshells as she's either really lovely or extremely difficult so you never know what you're going to get. Watching what I say 24 hours a day is driving me insane. DH is really stressed about it as well but if he says anything MIL takes offense (and if we told her she couldn’t stay with us she’d probably never speak to us again).
AIBU to want to want to be able to relax with my DH in my own home without MIL breathing down our necks? I feel guilty for feeling like this seeing as she's put up with us for so long, although admittedly she likes it and doesn't seem to need her own space. Coping strategies would be much appreciated!