Grandparents going on holiday over Christmas

128 replies

Raspberryberet67 · 23/12/2025 23:40

I’d appreciate thoughts on grandparents going on holiday when grandchildren are young. We’re second marriage- grandchildren on my husband’s side, primary school and nursery age. Son-in-law not impressed that we’re away this Christmas. In past years it’s been difficult to see them due to elderly parents. Are we bad grandparents??

OP posts:

Lilypad789 · 31/07/2026 14:02

HappyMummaOfOne · 31/07/2026 12:47

Your feelings are your feelings.You are correct your DD doesn’t have the right to your time, However you can’t then complain that your DD doesn’t make an effort with you in the future.
It’s not odd to be surprised that your parent choose to go away over Christmas! You would assume most people would want to spend Christmas as a family …. If you don’t feel this way then there is obviously something lacking in your relationship with your children. Just remember that you chose to go away over Christmas and miss out when you are elderly and alone on Xmas day! If you can’t be bothered to be involved now you can be upset about being left out later

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I completely disagree. What is special about Christmas? Nothing IMO, I don’t believe in god, It’s just another day for Mums to run around doing everything, no thanks. My ideal Christmas involves eating food I like and being left alone.

Pistachiocake · 31/07/2026 14:34

Find it's interesting that it's the SIL who wants to see you-does that mean the daughter doesn't, or at least isn't bothered?
I'd talk and find out why this is. You obviously can do what you like, but if she already isn't bothered, and he is upset, in your shoes I'd want to talk before this becomes a big issue.

orangehandles · Yesterday 15:36

Raspberryberet67 · 23/12/2025 23:49

Not sure how to reply but fashionqueen0123, yes son in law told us that it wasn’t our turn last year to see the grandchildren ( he has parents ) although we wanted to visit for a short time ( didn’t expect a full day invitation) It’s an impossible and frustrating situation!

Tell him it's not his turn to see you this year!

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