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AIBU?

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To be sad over this or am I overreacting?

156 replies

maria2bela1 · 20/05/2025 08:57

It’s my birthday today. I have young children. Whenever my birthday approaches my husband always mentions getting me a present but then talks about savings and money, so I just say don’t get me anything. In the past presents or days out always have to be prompted by me so these days I just give up and think forget it. My kids came and gave me hug and kiss and said happy birthday this morning, but I couldn’t help but feel sad that he didn’t even get them a card to give to me or a little bunch of flowers. Whilst having breakfast he said oh I didn’t know what to get you (been married over a decade) and I’ll get you something, I just said no problem don’t worry. I was really upset as on his birthdays and Father’s Day I always get him presents. He usually makes comments like ‘oh what you getting for my birthday then’ beforehand so I know he likes presents etc. Other than this he pays all the rent/bills and is a good dad so perhaps he feels this is good enough, which it is, but I had a good cry when he left this morning but don’t know if I’m being a brat or not.

OP posts:
TheAmusedQuail · 20/05/2025 09:05

Stop buying him cards and presents.

If he asks, say not sure and then just don't do anything.

I had this with my ex. I tried not to hold a grudge, but finally I matched his energy and he was shocked. Next year, I got a nice gift.

Natty13 · 20/05/2025 09:05

You're martyring yourself by telling him not to get you anything and the result is crying on your birthday :(

It's not bratty or entitled to expect the person you chose to create a family and spend your life with to make you feel soecial or loved a couple of days a year?

InMyOpenOnion · 20/05/2025 09:05

You're not being a brat at all. Even if money is tight, there are ways to acknowledge your birthday and your DH should at least do that. For what it's worth, I have been, married for 15 years. DH and I send each other links to things we would like for our birthdays!

Hollowvoice · 20/05/2025 09:03

Tell him how you feel.
Currently you always tell him not to get you anything, so he doesn't get you anything. I agree that's pretty crap from him but he is doing what you say

shoofly · 20/05/2025 09:02

Happy birthday 🎂 🥳. Honestly I don’t think you're being a brat, but you are giving mixed messages. You say "don't get me anything" and "don't worry". Your husband is just doing as you've said.

JLou08 · 20/05/2025 09:02

Instead of saying don't get me anything or it's no problem tell him what you want. Tell him it's made you upset and you want him to buy you cards, presents, flowers and arrange days out.
I'd be sad too but I make it clear to my DH that I expect cards and presents. Some people are very literal and if someone tells them not to get them anything, they won't.

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