I could not be happier about my sons, both now in their 40s. I would like to live closer to them - I have to take three trains to reach either. My elder son at times caused me some anxiety, especially after his father left us. He went off the rails a bit. However, he was never less than an affectionate son and once he settled down with his lovely wife, he has progressed in his career and is an exemplary father and husband. I am always welcome in their home. A number of times they have taken me with them on holiday to France and we are going again this summer; last October, I had several days in a caravan in Dorset with them. Their children are teenagers now and show every sign of being, eventually, responsible adults. In times of stress and bereavement, I could not have had better support than I had from my two sons and their partners.
My DiL and I get on very well indeed. Before they married, and he went south to work, she stayed on with me and did supply teaching until a job came up for her in the vicinity of his job. My other son is also supportive of me. Two years ago, he took me on a city break in Rome. We had a wonderful time - have a lot in common like a love of languages and an interest in antiquities. His partner has also lived with me while he got established in a job and she got part-time work locally. Now they have very good jobs and two lovely sons who are growing like weeds! I'm also welcome in their home whenever I feel like a break.
So, you see,*Biscuitlover*, although I have no daughters, I have loving and supportive sons and daughters in law who are the daughters I never had. I know how fortunate I am, but I wonder if the complaints you hear are from the vociferous few and those of us who are happy with our sons and their families don't feel the need to broadcast it.