dont teens say the loveliest things (being sarcastic!)

[summer68]

We had lots of extended family round to celebrate my dd 18 birthday. When everyone had gone home my ds16 informed us that he didn't want ANY family round on his 18 th, then added, in fact I don't want you here either! - nice to feel so wanted! So shall I book a nice holiday and celebrate his birthday without him, lol?

Tell him family bring you money when they come for your birthday. He will soon change his tune.

Maybe he just felt a bit stressed about the big family celebration thingie?

My db announced after my 50th birthday that he would not be doing a similar celebration for his. To be frank, I can see where he was coming from: I felt it quite a strain to be expected to be part of this big important family thing and know I had no control over expectations and so much potential for disappointing people.

I would have preferred something smaller but simply didn't have the nerve to say "look here, your expectations don't suit the person I am, I'd rather do it my way".

Some people just feel uncomfortable about Big Days. Dd hasn't had a birthday party since she was in primary school: we ask her every year and she doesn't want one. Not worth stressing about imo.

Anyway, your ds is 16: he may well change his mind in two years.