Neeny - my MIL was actually staying with us for the whole time. We were in the middle or renos (still are actually) so she had to stay in our living area. There was no escape from her. Also DD is her first grandchild, so she really had no idea what was expected of her, plus she was trying to satisfy her own grandma needs. Also I am a private person and don't really cope with someone around all the time. Even though she considers me her "daughter", I do not consider her my mother. I am not used to the warm and fuzzy close family thing IYKWIM. So even though I had convinced myself that I would be ok with her help, in reality I wasn't.

So maybe accept the help, but with some ground rules. If I was to do it again, she would not be staying with us, but could come and spend the day. Help with washing, cooking, baby minding so I could shower etc. The last thing you need is to be worrying about someone else's feelings. HTH