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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

AIBU to feel jealous of families with gardens in summer?

55 replies

RheaTheaShea · 27/05/2026 14:29

AIBU to be jealous of the people who have gardens in this heat and summer in general?

I’m a single parent with a 5 year old and we live in a block of 10 flats. There’s no balcony, only a tiny small shared garden or more of a courtyard actually. And everytime summer comes around I’m so jealous of people posting their gardens and kids in a paddling pools with mud kitchens and generally having a great time.
I know 100% people will say “just move!!” but sometimes it’s not that easy. I definitely had a look into it but now, at this very moment it’s not possible. I just wish i could give my child the joys of outdoor space and a pool and not relying on always going out when it’s so bloody hot and it’s not even enjoyable .

OP posts:
sillysmiles · 27/05/2026 14:41

When the weather is like this I think its perfectly acceptable to lament the lack of accessibile outdoor space near you.

RheaTheaShea · 27/05/2026 14:40

MyTrivia · 27/05/2026 14:31

Do you live near countryside or is it very urban?

We live in a city. There is a local park 5 minute walk away with a small playground which heats up to about +50 degrees with no shade at all. It’s just a miserable experience for both of us. It’s great for any other time but in the summer heat it’s unbearable that’s why I wish we had a garden and a pool.

OP posts:
toomuchfaff · 27/05/2026 14:38

YANBU but not sure what good it'll do you to be jealous of people, youve got to find a way to deal with it or change it; you cant live your life jealous.

LadyTable · 27/05/2026 14:31

YANBU.

As much as so many MNetters moan about garden noise and smells etc, they are great to have.

MyTrivia · 27/05/2026 14:31

Do you live near countryside or is it very urban?