I can’t help but feel overlooked and taken for granted by my sons
DEAR DEIDRE: My daughter sent a card on my birthday and added the names of my two sons.
I received chocolates, wine and a spa day. I didn’t ask if the gifts were just from my daughter, but I suspect they were.
I’m 61 and my husband’s 63. I can’t help but feel overlooked and taken for granted by my sons.
They hardly remember my birthday and the youngest son in particular never makes an effort.
On my 60th birthday he didn’t even turn up. He said the card got lost in the post, but I know he’s lying.
My daughter’s 36 and my sons are 34 and 31.
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I’ve treated all my children the same, but my youngest son in particular treats me as if I’m not worth it.
Should I just accept that my sons didn’t contribute or ask my daughter if the gifts were from all of them?
READ MORE FROM DEAR DEIDRE
DEIDRE SAYS: You are not being unreasonable – it is natural to feel disappointed and a little hurt at the sense of being overlooked.
Adult children do sometimes forget their parents’ birthdays.
Try not to get too upset but let your children know how important their birthday is to you.
A phone call or text message can go a long way.
Maintaining a healthy and supportive relationship with your children, even if they do forget your birthday from time to time, is ultimately your goal.