Do you think I should?

Don't go anywhere near them!

have to agree stay away!

Definitely. It would make you look like a mother who can't let go.

I agree with the others stay away.

Definitely not. Not everybody likes surprises and not one like that. I also would not rent close by, I personally would stay well clear.

Crikey no. It might not be the kind of surprise you anticipate. I have done this before but have suggested it to DD early on as a way of letting them have an evening out. They are always happy to have me around and I don't get in their way. DH was more than happy to stay at home, but these days I wouldn't leave him because of rapid onset bouts of illness as talked about elsewhere. Can't do spontaneity now but in OP case I wouldn't turn up as a surprise.

You need to clear it up and arrange a mutually convenient day to meet not "surprise" them. Maybe rent a bit further away and say you "don't want to encroach on their holiday space but perhaps you could meet up for a day and of course if they would like to go out ONE evening, you'd be happy to babysit?"

Don't do it. There will hopefully be other times when you can go on holiday with them but it sounds like they are making the point that you can't expect it every time.

I do not thunk this is a good idea at all - it would seem that your DD and her family want a quiet holiday to themselves - that is fine - do not take offence.

We are joining our DD and her family for a holiday this year for various reasons to do with my OH's health, but we have not done so before; and when she asked, I made it perfectly clear that this was not setting a precedent - that we would not take the 'ump if we were not asked another time.

Be happy that you have had those chances to watch the GC enjoying themselves at the seaside; and let them go on their own with your blessing.

Oh dear! I agree with Jane10. If you're close to your daughter, surely she would have said something if she wanted you to join them?

That said, members of our family would often turn up for a few days when my family was on holiday. But I do think your situation is different.

Maybe you should take the hint?

I'd be inclined to leave well enough alone!!

oldgoose

I think it's a bit off that they didn't invite you, but I would not do this.