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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Seeing my child for 2.5 hours on his birthday

27 replies

PoptyPin · 22/12/2025 19:33

My son lives with his Dad (not my choice) It’s his birthday soon and he has agreed to come to mine from 11.30-2pm. I’ll do him a little buffet, he will open his presents and I’ve got him a cake. I’ve got him some very unique gifts this year and will decorate the house/I’m doing a special theme for him/going to quite a bit of effort to make it really special.

I’m grateful that I’ll see him on his birthday as I didn’t even know if I would have any time with him but 2.5 hours does feel like a very limited amount of time to fit everything in without it feeling rushed.

What is everyone’s opinions please and how can I make the most of the time I do have with him?

On Christmas morning I am trying to do the same (8-11) and make the most of the time I do spend with him.

I am trying to be positive but it is hard.

OP posts:
Endofyear · 22/12/2025 20:17

PoptyPin · 22/12/2025 19:55

He’s eating tea at my house now which is nice 😊 I’ve told him no pressure about the buffet, it’s for everyone to enjoy and he can help himself if he likes.

I think your birthday plan sounds lovely OP and I'm glad that things are slowly improving for you. Little steps but it's going in the right direction ☺️ hope your son has a fab birthday 💐

Leopardspota · 22/12/2025 20:20

Remember plenty of 14 year olds would want to go out to see friends/ hide in their room even on their birthday! You’re getting the prime time:)

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