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Feeling a bit (a lot really) sad

(62 Posts)
Ivanova5 Wed 30-Aug-23 13:37:13

It was my birthday on Monday - and it was a big one! As it was a bank holiday we had no plans to go anywhere, and I had a nice breakfast, and a pleasant enough day, but that was it. I do feel envious of people who have splendid treats on their birthday. But it is what it is. What I am really sad about is that my son just sent me a message on FaceBook "Happy Birthday". No call, no visit, no card, no present. Husband was really cross as he saw that son had been out for a pint with his friends, and couldn't come to see me. I'm just sad. I know that son has had a bad time lately, I've supported him through all sorts, and when he's been short of money I have helped - to the tune of several thousand pounds. The stupid thing is I'm now worrying that he or his girlfriend are unwell, or that something is wrong - but I'm not going to give in and contact them. How can you not know that your Mum has a special big birthday, and how can you not care (so it seems) This is really self indulgent writing this, but I feel so sad and let down, so thanks for letting me witter on!

Sarkyspice61 Thu 31-Aug-23 16:51:44

Gransnetters seem to be very understanding when this type of story is posted. Not remembering your own mum's special birthday is unforgivable regardless of how busy/stressed you are. Same applies to only sending a greeting via Facebook. Why are our generation so grateful for every morsle of attention we get from our adult kids? I think this generation are the most self-absorbed and disrespectful there has ever been. Interesting that they also get more handouts from parents than previous generations too. I'm afraid I'm not one for pussyfooting around and trying to understand this selfish lot. They don't deserve us. Being sad is understandable but I'd be bloody furious too.

NannaFirework Thu 31-Aug-23 17:27:25

Happy Birthday!
Your DH could have spoilt you couldn’t he?
Children can be thoughtless - they are either givers or non givers !
Spoil yourself that’s what I’m going to try and do - my DP recently said let’s not bother with the birthdays - but he’s just stingy…

silverlining48 Thu 31-Aug-23 17:37:38

Don’t recall in nearly 60 years together my dh ever spoiling me, on high, low or any days. If I want it I organise it or nothing happens. Now we are old nothing happens I am fair worn out. 😱

Greciangirl Thu 31-Aug-23 17:44:50

Another disappointed gran here, also.

Last weekend we had a fairly large family get together. Three birthdays in August.

My son who i very rarely see, just handed me a card and good wishes.
I was a bit disappointed.

My Dd on the other hand is very generous.

Shazmo24 Thu 31-Aug-23 17:47:37

What I can't understand is how some people seem to have a birthday that extends to several weeks! I get one day and that's it.
My last significant birthday (60) was in 2020 aling with a 40th wedding anniversary and so couldnt celebrate either but it probably would have been up to me to organise something

kittylester Thu 31-Aug-23 18:25:23

When I actually think about it - our daughters organise the boys!

EEJit Thu 31-Aug-23 19:01:34

I have 2 sons and a daughter, only my daughter sends me a card, not a dicky bird from the sons. Am I bothered, not a bit, they have better things to do with their time and money than send cards that will end up in the bin/recycling.

Luckygirl3 Thu 31-Aug-23 20:06:53

If its a big birthday then clanging great hints in the months leading up .... its my xth birthday coming up what shall we all do? Shall we go for a meal? Shall we have a rave?

Happy late wishes.

tictacnana Thu 31-Aug-23 20:46:06

Happy Birthday, lovely lady. You’ve done your best, been a good mum. Take heart. All will be well. X

Catterygirl Fri 01-Sept-23 00:08:24

This thread has made me feel so lucky. Son always makes a fuss of some sort. Occasionally a big present like a cinema TV for my 70th or a simple meal out because OH is working so unavailable. None of this really matters. When I broke my ankle and he was a teenager he helped big time. We spoke tonight and had such a laugh.
I wish you better future birthdays.

Lyndie Fri 01-Sept-23 10:30:30

It was my birthday on Monday too. I saw my son and grandchildren the next day and they had forgotten. I didn’t tell them. Happy Birthday btw. X