My family are low on real warmth and bothering to spend time together or even telephone but big on the importance of presents, as though they signify the true depth of our love for each other.
This week my sister (who I last spoke to in February , when I phoned her) texted me to tell me the 2 items I should buy for her son and the 1 item I should buy for her daughter.
I don't mind buying for her son although he will only thank me when I call him. I had no intention of buying something for my niece; she is 21, I haven't seen her for almost 3 years and she hasn't thanked me for Xmas and birthday presents for many years. Both sets of presents will require receipts enclosed.
I looked for the 2 items for my nephew but they are not for sale yet so e-mailed my sister to tell her this along with a reminder that she is invited here for Xmas. She texted me back telling me what I should get instead - no 'thank you', no 'please' and still no acknowledgement of my invitation.
AIBU to not want to be told who to buy for? AIBU to not want to be told what I should buy since I'd like to choose myself (I'm honestly not that bad at buying)?
AIBU to not want the build up to Xmas to be stressful due to needing to buy exactly the right thing and being cheesed off that there is no surprise element. Why not buy it themselves and I'll send them a cheque for it?