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AIBU?

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AIBU to feel second choice when my mother spends Christmas with her husband?

132 replies

CharlieChopadopolis · 25/08/2026 14:45

My mums husband is muslim so didn't celebrate Christmas at all until he met her. Now he partakes in celebrations but doesn't believe in the meaning behind it.

Every Christmas he works 6am to 6pm and so is out until 7pm but my mum refuses to come to me for christmas because he will be on his own 7pm to 10pm (bedtime). This means I am on my own at my house each year, no other family and can't travel to her as I have pets and the distance is far. She has said she will be round to stay for new year. I found out this is because her husband is away back home during this time.

Aibu to think she puts her husband first and I am merely second choice?

OP posts:
CharlieChopadopolis · 25/08/2026 15:01

Making alternative arrangements for pets is expensive and I've been to her every year for around 15 years. She's never had Christmas at my house.

OP posts:
CharlieChopadopolis · 25/08/2026 15:00

Neither her or I drive so visiting for the day wouldnt be an option as there'll be no public transport back and 60 mile distance is too far for a taxi.

They stay (at my seaside location? Regularly throughout the year.

I am an only child.

I've gone to her at Christmas in previous years when I lived a taxi ride away.

I was just miffed because she won't leave him at Christmas for those few hours yet at new year as soon as he confirms he will be away, she's inviting herself over. I feel like a second choice.

OP posts:
Scarlettpixie · 25/08/2026 14:52

How far apart are you? Is it too far to travel for the day? I wonder if she could visit you and then be back home for when he finishes work (I used to get my mum home for Corrie). Do you have anyone who could look after your pets for you?

MyLimeGuide · 25/08/2026 14:51

Are you the only child?

MyLimeGuide · 25/08/2026 14:50

What pets cant be left for a day? Maybe he is controlling?

Ratatatatatatouille · 25/08/2026 14:49

I feel the husband might be a red herring and she might not want to travel if it's as far as you say. I assume you'd have to stay a few days if you can't leave your pets unless it's a dog and you can't bring it for some reason.

More details needed on: distance of travel/time needed to stay, why you can't make alternative arrangements for your pets, and if she visited you before husband entered the scene?

Lifeispeach · 25/08/2026 14:48

Your Mum won’t leave her husband on Christmas and you won’t leave your pets behind. Sounds like neither of you want to make an effort for each other tbf.

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