Had two MIL, my FIL divorced when my husband was only two years old. The MIL from Hell walked out on her husband and three children which should be enough explanation about what kind of a person she was. There was nothing I could do to please her. My FIL's second wife, the woman who raised my DH and his siblings, was the most wonderful woman I have ever known. She was like a mother to me and taught me so much. I lost my mother when she was only 52 so having my step MIL was one of God's gifts. I used to worry and clean like a maniac when folks came from out of town. Then I got smart and realized that no one was going to eat off of my kitchen floor no matter how clean it was.