Why do I say I'll never have a family holiday again - and then keep doing it?

[Morecoffeepleaseee]

I've waited for this holiday all year. Kids have been so excited. We've brought my widowed DM - otherwise she complains she never gets a holiday and I feel guilty. She's great in small doses. I always forget how hard work she is any longer term. After a couple of days she brings a spikey atmosphere to everything. It's like having another child, possibly a sulky teenager. We are self-catering and she asks what's for each meal, never cooks or cleans up. If I suggest she makes any contribution to the workload it becomes an argument, or she asks for advice every two minutes. AIBU to say never again every year, and then give in and do it again?

Dont take your mum again. I went on many a holiday with my parents and every time i forgot until 43 minutes in how bad she is.

you have my sympathy.

Just don't take your DM, it's nice you do but not mandatory. Unfair your kids shouldn't have a holiday because of her

Book your next holiday soon after you return from this one even if it's a year away. While your memory is still fresh and book something only suitable for your immediate family.

Thank you. You're right, I know. It just makes me so sad that she is such hard work.

I think a multi generational holiday is likely to be hard work at the best of times. I would book a separate long weekend away with her if you can and reclaim your family holiday.

You have my sympathies . Could you book a nice holiday for you and the family then maybe book a weekend with your mum ?
I find my mum hard going too but I can usually do a weekend with her or a few days out .

Sounds like a rubbish holiday for your DCs.
Book next year now for you and the DCs only and worry about telling her later.

I agree with booking a long weekend away with her and a proper holiday without her. It’s not your fault she won’t get a proper holiday and it’s not fair if she tries to make you feel guilty.

They call it the triumph of hope over experience.