Dear Annie: I have three children, one son and two daughters. I am a widow and my family has always been close and loving. My son lives in the same city as me. He is very attentive and looks at me every day.
My daughters live out of town, about two hours away. My oldest daughter and her husband come about once a month. They are very attentive. My youngest daughter has always been very close, and came often. She is divorced and has four grown children and five grandchildren. Her ex-husband was having an affair and she divorced him six years ago. I think the matter took her by surprise.
He has since met someone new. He is a very nice man and they have an exclusive relationship. Before, he came every six weeks and we talked daily. But now he rarely comes to visit.
I have helped her financially, doing things for my grandchildren and her, paid for her divorce, bought furniture and other necessities. She says nothing happened to stop her from coming to visit like before.
I had hip replacement surgery several years ago and have to use a walker. I don’t drive anymore. He came at the end of January and spent one night, and that’s the only time I’ve seen him this year. She calls almost every day.
I don’t understand the change in his behavior. I try not to dwell on it, but during the holiday season, it’s on my mind. She says nothing happened, she is busy, I didn’t do anything to hurt her feelings in any way.
I miss her and so does the rest of the family. Do you have any suggestions?
– I miss my daughter
Dear Missing My Daughter: It sounds like you have a wonderful relationship with your three children. It’s easy to get lost in the duties of everyday life, especially in a new relationship, so I would give your daughter the benefit of the doubt. She seems really busy.
If you want to see more of your daughter, consider inviting her and her new boyfriend over more often, rather than relying on her on her own initiative. You don’t need to dedicate yourself to hosting; a simple, “I miss you, come for pizza Friday night!” it could be all it takes. If he repeatedly turns down your offer, you might like to open up about your feelings and tell him how much his visits mean to you, especially if he calls you almost every day.
“How can I forgive my cheating partner?” it’s out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology, featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication, and reconciliation, is available in paperback and e-book. visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.
COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM