Building Friendships + Bremfield's

The mother-in-law. There are very few relationships on earth that come with so much emotional baggage — both good and bad. But I must say, this is one relationship that can be one of life’s biggest blessings, if done right. Although, I didn’t always believe this. (In fact, I’ll admit I was a bit resentful). ​

You see, at the ripe age of eighteen, I moved away to university. Independence was mine! (Not that I had a rebellious bone in me). Soon thereafter I moved even further across the country to a new school. And then again into a new country once I got married. Life was progressing along (somewhat) as planned. Then after a few months of marriage it struck me — I couldn’t just pop over to my mom’s for Thursday afternoon coffee or meet her at the mall to scour the clearance racks on a whim. And as months and years passed, the likelihood of me ever moving back home became even more grim. And then there was my mother-in-law… who had all of her children living nearby. Okay — I was more than a little bit resentful. I was downright bitter.

But let me tell you something. Bitterness does not get you anywhere.
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So, with a change of heart, a little bit of effort, and a whole lot of grace, I began viewing my relationship with my mother-in-law in a whole new light. Yes, she’s not my mom. (But she’s not trying to be). Yes, I can’t tell her every single fleeting thought. (But neither can I tell my own mother everything.) Yes, she raised her children in different circumstances than my childhood. (But she fed and bathed, dried the tears of, and raised the man I fell in love with and married.) So... 

She’s not my mom.

But she’s a blessing.

She’s not only my prayer warrior, but a friend. She’s not only our go-to last-minute babysitter, but a fellow lover of bakeshops and cute boutiques.

So if you have a mother-in-law that lives just down the street or all the way across the world, give her a call this week. Maybe start by asking her for your husband's favourite childhood recipe. Or invite her to come along on a playdate to the park. Or go out for brunch (see below)! Begin to build an authentic friendship with her — you'll be glad you did!

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Bremfield's

As I mentioned before, one thing my mother-in-law and I love to do is check out quaint eating spots together. While my mother-in-law has faithfully visited this bakery-café and flower market since it opened two years ago, I got to go for the first time just a few weeks ago! Whether you are a Niagara native or just visiting, Bremfield's in Port Colborne, Ontario is a "must-see" for the foodie and ​flower enthusiast alike. 

First off, they have the most beautiful plants, flower arrangements, and antiques for purchase!

My mother-in-law snagged one of these adorable ferns to take home.

And their baked goods? I think this picture speaks for itself. 

These freshly-baked pies looked delicious, too. 

But we came for the waffles — complete with raspberry rhubarb compote and maple whipped cream.

It's safe to say that my two-year-old enjoyed the waffles as well. 

Bremfield's is where passion meets beauty, whether it be in unique floral arrangements or a homemade treat!  — Bremfield's Facebook Page

Liam even got to feed the resident bunny.

And, of course, we took some treats home to share!

I want to hear from you! ​ What's something you enjoy doing with your in-laws? And... be sure to let me know in the comment section below if you have ever visited this fantastic bakery-flower-antique shop!

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Disclosure: All opinions on this blog are my own, and I was not compensated by Bremfield's for this post. But really, you should go check this place out!