Thank you Nugget and Wobble!
Those are some very good suggestions and I feel a lot better knowing that things could improve, if I make sure to play the right cards. It's definitely going to be a marathon and I was impressed with mum actually taking my letter seriously and not throwing a tantrum.
You're right though, it's very tricky while she nurses hopes that I will 'return to the flock' and probably bring hubby in tow. I do wish I could just let go and enjoy the ride as it's a great time of my life but it's darkened with all this stress and conflict. I can't wait to be back in the UK. I guess it's harder since fiance and I are apart and that makes the moral support difficult to access.
Thanks to all for the well wishes and suggestions! I'll make sure to keep you posted
P.S. I can't wait to give buckfast a try