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Hey Pandas, AITA For Expressing Disappointment In My Husband’s Actions On Mother’s Day?
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Hey Pandas, AITA For Expressing Disappointment In My Husband’s Actions On Mother’s Day?

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Moderator’s note:

If you find yourself disagreeing with this person’s actions, we encourage you not to downvote the post. Instead, kindly express your opinions in the comments. We recommend maintaining politeness and articulating your thoughts with well-constructed arguments.

I am (F35) married to my DH (dear husband, M39), with two children (F11 and M8). As many of you know, it was Mother’s Day in the UK this weekend.

I have mentioned a few times how I would like to have breakfast in bed or even just a cup of tea in bed in the morning

Image credits: Maddi Bazzocco (not the actual photo)

I do not think I ask for much, this and a nice hot bubble bath would be ideal.

So I wake up, everyone asleep but then DH states he will get up and make me a cup of tea, I get dressed and go downstairs, I realise the house is a mess so I spend the next two hours cleaning this to realise DH has gone back to sleep so I make my own cup of tea and sit and watch some of my reality TV show. And hours later everyone is still asleep, so I wake them up as it is now 11am.

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DH moans I am waking him up on his day off from work

Image credits: Tânia Mousinho (not the actual photo)

I make them breakfast and then my DD comes and gives me a box. I had paid for a mystery Mother’s Day box which my DD (dear daughter) hid so I would have something to open on Mother’s Day.

Now I know I shouldn’t moan as I know I am very lucky to have children on a day like this. However, I feel like I should be less harsh on my DH. When he woke up he took my DD out – granted they didn’t come home until 8pm, he had took his mother shopping, bought her lunch, flowers and dinner, he had brought her a new Pandora bracelet and some new clothes she wanted. I understand this is his mother, but I didn’t see my DD all day, me and my DS (dear son) played some games and took the dog for a walk.

The day before we had discussed my husband going to the shop to purchase some scones and cakes so we could do a homemade afternoon tea as he “forgot” to book one, however when he did return home, he returned back with pizza, with the kids’ toppings on, nothing I liked. I smiled and ate some thanking him for buying it so I didn’t have to cook. He was telling me how much his mother enjoyed her Mother’s Day and then put on some rubbish TV thing he wanted. I laid down and ended up falling asleep.

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This was short-lived as DH woke me up when kids finished eating so I could help him clear up – which ended with me doing the clearing

Image credits: Josue Michel (not the actual photo)

I turned to him in tears and said when its Father’s Day I always go above and beyond for him to ensure he has a lovely day and he basically has a day where everything is about him, and how I think he was selfish for not making me a cup of tea or spending the day with me, I then said how I obviously don’t mean much to him compared to his mother and then I went to bed and we have not spoken since – Was ITA?

Moderator’s note:

Please note that the images included in this article are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual individuals or items discussed in the story.

If you have a comparable experience or story you’d like to tell, we welcome your submissions. Click here to share your story with Bored Panda.

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My name is Gabriela, and I’m a Community Manager at Bored Panda. In real life, it means that every day, together with my team, I ensure that all the posts submitted by our creative pandas display their work in the best possible way. I'm always on the lookout for new artists who would like to join our community and share their content with a wide audience. In addition to that, I keep my finger on the community pulse and supervise its activity, ensuring that any problems our members experience on our website are promptly resolved. Before joining the Bored Panda team, I worked as a freelancer, offering my creative services to people around the world—starting with graphic design, photography, and finally videos. Now, I pursue these activities only as a hobby, capturing moments with my cats and documenting new places I visit during my travels.

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Gabriela Zagórska

Gabriela Zagórska

Moderator, BoredPanda staff

My name is Gabriela, and I’m a Community Manager at Bored Panda. In real life, it means that every day, together with my team, I ensure that all the posts submitted by our creative pandas display their work in the best possible way. I'm always on the lookout for new artists who would like to join our community and share their content with a wide audience. In addition to that, I keep my finger on the community pulse and supervise its activity, ensuring that any problems our members experience on our website are promptly resolved. Before joining the Bored Panda team, I worked as a freelancer, offering my creative services to people around the world—starting with graphic design, photography, and finally videos. Now, I pursue these activities only as a hobby, capturing moments with my cats and documenting new places I visit during my travels.

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Hashim Siraj
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Absolutely NTA as you only asked for a cup of tea and a present which is entirely reasonable. Your husband is TAH as first he said he would do something nice for you and slept in, then he had the audacity to COMPLAIN about you waking him up at a reasonable time. Then the only present you received was a gift you helped your daughter get while your husband decided to take his mother on a day trip and spoil her and got her PANDORA which was bad enough but then he didn’t get anything for you and didn’t think of getting your daughter something for you. To top it off he forgot even a basic cake and flowers for you. I am an insensitive 15 year old and I would be nicer than this. I appreciate anyone who takes the time to read this.

Libstak
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So nice to read. Word of advice, don't change your kindness, the world will be full of people who will throw out a "so what", "what's the big deal", "oh well", "who cares, it's not that important" and a thousand other versions of reasoning not to be considerate. The world will be inconsiderate of you and make you want to not care so much about others. But here you are with basic decency, hold like it's the mother load of gold in a Dragons den. I've seen so much and I'm always accused of being too generous, too sensitive, a push over. That's rubbish, I don't let others decide who I am, that is all.

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Trillian
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Maybe you should expect more of him every other day of the year as well. I mean, what use is a cup of tea and a bubble bath once a year if you are being the sole caretaker the other 364 days.

Mine Truly
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Great point!!!!! The dynamic was already broken when he complained about being woken up so she could start his day by making breakfast for him.

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lenka
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think you are the AH and you are not expecting too much but I think there are a few issues at play. I agree with Trillian, when you are supported in your role and space is made for your preferences and self-care ANY time you need it, then mother’s day becomes not such a big deal. You sound very much like you are feeling unappreciated generally – not just because its mother’s day. It’s ok to expect more from your partner every day. Not just once a year.

lenka
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I also wonder how clearly you are communicating your expectations? You can 'mention a few times' but that is not the same as explicitly stating what you want. Instead of staying in bed and telling your husband you are waiting for your tea, you go downstairs and start cleaning. Perhaps your DH thought you no longer wanted tea in bed? If you did, you should have stayed there and told him you were waiting for it. This kind of thing continues all day with you having certain expectations that don't seem to be clearly communicated, your husband rather ignorantly and selfishly going about his day and you ultimately being upset because your needs are not being met. Passive aggressive communication is not effective. I might be off the mark here (I know BP heavily edits these posts and sometimes they come across wrong, so if I have missed the mark, I apologise) but what I do know is that if I want a certain experience I have to explicitly say to my husband “I am expecting tea in bed".

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A S Mora
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. DH, is not so dear and is definitely TA. If this is how he treats her on MOTHER'S DAY, I dread to wonder how he treats her the rest of the year. He shelled out for his mum, but couldn't even be bothered to get pizza with toppings she likes, make her a tea, and tidy up so she could sleep in peace. Given how giving he was to his mum, he knows he's shortchanging her.

oldandexhausted79
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And this is why women are divorcing. Men only need to take note of the small things. We literally tell you what we want, yet you choose to do nothing or get something we never asked for. We just want to be heard. This is also why I divorced and ended up marrying a woman. I can highly recommend.

paddingtonvg
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Absolutely NTA, My parents were divorced and they both made sure the other parent got a mother's/ father's day present from us kids. And would remind us (once we were old enough) to cook breakfast/ dinner for them on that day as well. Yes you are not his mother, but he should be helping your young children to appreciate you and do things for you, not only on mother's day, but every day. Your husband seems like a whiny brat!!!

Ssss
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My honest reaction is that I feel so sorry for you OP. Divorce him. He doesn't appreciate you.

JB
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Late to the party but I hope you read this. It must be especially disheartening when your husband recognizes the importance of Mother’s Day with regards to his mother but you are essentially ignored. I have to agree with other comments that he’s probably not a supportive partner any other day of the year either. Possibly an odd thing to focus on, your comment about him bringing home pizza with toppings you don’t like but you thanked him for being thoughtful so you didn’t have to cook. Speaking in broad generalization, most (?) women are more likely to observe their partner/spouse’s preferences and act accordingly to demonstrate that they see their SO. They don’t need to be told. Whereas the most frequent complaints I’ve heard or observed from men is “Why doesn’t she just tell me what she wants?” A lot of men don’t process hints; plenty of others don’t even process direct communication of what one needs from them. I told my ex for years that every screaming fight he started over something petty eroded my love for him but he was still shocked when I said I was done and started divorce proceedings. What you said was positive reinforcement of his actions when you weren’t actually happy. I completely understand why you take the route of not upsetting him with your disappointment. Nonetheless, what you did was let him know that the way he treated you the whole day was ok with you when it wasn’t. Successful relationships depend on honesty. You don’t have to be harsh or confrontational but you should tell your SO how you really feel rather than pretending to their face that all is well, then posting on social media about your true feelings. When you are disappointed, say so and explain why. When you are hurt, say so and explain why. Honesty is a double edged sword; you may find that you aren’t compatible but it’s a heck of a lot easier to find a way to be each other’s true partner when you don’t hide how you really feel.

Selene Yue
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Honestly I think it's beyond salvaging. This isn't, he got a present that wasn't her taste thing, this is a he completely disregards everything she wanted, yelled at her, made plans to be out with DD and MIL the whole day without even bothering to tell his wife, then woke her up to CLEAN when he got mad she woke him up for food. Her couldn't even be bothered to make her a single cup of tea. My blood pressure went up just reading this story, honestly. Unless he magically gets an epiphany or she decides she's ok being with someone who treats her like a maid forever, there is no salvaging this marriage.

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Janet Graham
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I got miffed at my ex once for not remembering Mother's Day and he made some crack about I was not his mother. Yes, a glimpse as to why that marriage fell apart. In his case, life was all about him. His family, what he wanted, his money, his job blah, blah blah. I see some similarities there with your husband. So maybe plan your own Mother's Day. Leave him with the kids and you go have a girl's day out. Around here, there are so many freebies for mothers. Free flowers, lunches, desserts, and even door prizes. My sisters (all adults) and I did that for my Mom one year and we all had a great time. You may come home to a mess, but there is a good chance that your kids would go with him to fete his mother and leave her the mess :)

Julia H
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get so ticked every time a male voice says, she's not my mom, why do anything. Like, seriously?

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I_imagine_even_worse_w***s
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're definitely not the AH here there are so many ways he could have made an effort. He could have taken both kids to lunch with his mom, came home and made you dinner and put the kids to bed. He could have gotten out of bed and made you breakfast. Cleaned before he went to bed the previous night. Could he not have brought you all out with his mother as a treat for both of you? He also could have followed through on his afternoon tea promise or at a minimum asked what would make the day special for you, some alone time for your bath, breakfast on bed, dinner etc. Because everyone's preferences are different. The dude put zero effort in though. You are rightly miffed by his lack of consideration and effort. I think yiu need to sit down with him and explain calmly why his actions or lack thereof hurt you and what you would have enjoyed.

Karen Timmons
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He sounds like an AH! Your expectations were based on what he said he was going to do and they are the bare minimum for mother's day. My kids used to joke that in our house everyday is mother's day. I know I am very fortunate. To wake you up to clear up after the kids is ridiculous! He needs his attitude adjusted. I am so sorry for your mother's day. NTA

Id row
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think he likes her very much. She's obviously someone not important to him. You shouldn't stay with someone like that.

Emie N.
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Your husband promised to do something nice for you and he sleeps instead. How rude of him! Side note: why do internet people use phrases like "dear husband" or "dear wife" etc. Its kind of weird and cheesy.

Julia H
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm certain some poster, somewhere posted DD, DS, DH (rarely, I see DW) and it stuck

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K. LNU
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I told my friend (when he said that his wife wasn't his mother so why should he do something with her [and the kids] vs. just his mom) that he helped MAKE his wife a mother!! And even though the kids are now young teens, he should maybe celebrate with all the moms in his life. He said that he never thought of it that way.

Manny
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The major takeaway from this article is most (not all but some) men are just selfish. If he does this on Mother's Day I can imagine how he is on her Birthday or Anniversary. If he doesn't care then neither should she.

Mine Truly
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. And it's even fine that you broke down in tears since that's a very normal emotion to experience when someone ignores your mother's day completely while going all out on someone else's. You had reasonable requests. Now that you've shared your emotions on the topic, I'd like to see the two of you sit down for a more level-headed and assertive conversation about why he made you feel slighted and what can be done differently when a situation like this comes up again. My partner and I schedule weekly debriefs where we can go over incidents exactly like this one and work together as a team to make sure both of us have our wishes and boundaries respected. For example, setting clear expectations could have led to him being allowed to sleep as late as needed on his day off with time to celebrate his mother, while also making the time to get you your tea and plan a special dinner that you like. He was tuned out to your needs, and regular communication should fix that.

Eileen Luciano
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA but the husband is definitely the AH and his mother should have asked him what he was doing for you for Mother's day and not taking up the whole day.

Aaaa Bbbb
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. I'd say maybe DH just isn't good at gifts or celebrations (which would be ok, everyone has weaknesses), but he managed gifts and celebration for his mom, that's not the issue. He's just an AH. Show him these responses.

Nina
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Your DH really dropped ball and was quite insensitive talking about his mother enjoyed her mother's day when he did nothing for the mother of his kids. I do wonder how much appreciation he shows the rest of the year though or if he (and maybe the kids as well) take you for granted. When I was that age we were excited to bring our mother breakfast in bed with our own artpieces (we usually made in school), I'm really sorry that doesn't seem the case for you. You are worthy of love, acknowledgement and praise.

Little Miss Lady
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It sounds like you and your husband need to have a talk about expectations and sharing household responsibilities. It should not all fall on you. I am sorry you did not have the Mother's Day you anticipated. You deserve better.

Hey!
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband and I decided to go out together in the goal of getting married. We sat down for 5 hours to list our expectations. One of my big ones was mother/father's day. I am not his mother and he is not my father. I will take care of both our mothers on that day but I don't want anything from him on that day, nor should he expect anything from me. He gave our children money so they could chose what they wanted to give me; I got some weird stuff but I remember doing the same for my parents. We did go to brunches and other activities, but the children wanted to do those and it was acceptable to go. To this day, 35+ years together, we are still okay with this.

Cosmikid
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It REALLY helps for all parties to clearly state their wishes well ahead of time! I want to please you- but can't if I'm mistaken about what you really want! then- tears.

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ThisisEngland
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Welcome to parenthood. It's a thankless task but brings it's own rewards. I've brought my stepsons up with my husband for 15 years and this mother's Day I got a lovely card off the dog and a box of chocolates from my MIL! I don't take it personally. I know they'd miss me if I weren't here. I love the ungrateful little gits all the same. And one day they will be parents themselves and I'm looking forward to choking back the laughter when they realise just how much work and investment parenting takes. As for the husband. If he doesn't appreciate what you do day to day then he's not going to recognise the need to make a fuss of you on behalf of the kids. Don't go to town on father's day. Give him a card from the kids in case they forget and get on with your day in future. Next year tell the family you're having the day off and book a spa day. Tell hubby to make sure your fave takeaway is waiting for you when you get back and have a nice family meal. Don't sweat it. They love you really.

L Coffeen
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. There is no equal division of labor to start. "DH" couldn't finish a single task on his own, and can't even remember to get his wife the scone and tea she asked for. He doesn't even know the pizza toppings she does and doesn't like apparently. He couldn't even clean up on his own, he woke her to "help". I'm not bragging here but my DH goes above and beyond every day and always tries to find ways to help make my day easier or give me a break. on mother's day I get the day OFF to do as I please, whether it's spending time w/ my family while I exert little to no effort to plan or prepare anything, or giving me a spa afternoon and a nice dinner after our little one is asleep. And I don't have to ask, he just DOES it. Bc that is what a loving respectful partner does. If he can't even exert the minimum amount of effort required, i.e. tea in bed or flowers, I would stop giving a c**p for him come June. (Or whenever father's day is in The UK, I'm in the US so it's June).

Barbara Williams
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

For Father's day, you should pack up your son and go visit with your dad. ALL day

brittany
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i stopped expecting my kids dad to do anything for me during our relationship. i just bought what i wanted for myself and called it a day. my kids of course made mothers day and birthday things for me, which i keep and cherish. there was no effort from him at any point despite me going all out for him on our anniversary, fathers day and his birthday. so i started giving back that same energy. honestly i doubt he ever noticed

Poster
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Holy s**t and all she wanted was a cup of tea and to spend the day with her kids

Radical Mary
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No, you are not the A-hole, he is. He should have woken up early and taken his mom to breakfast and shopping, just him and his mom, until 12 or 1 PM and let you stay home with your kids so you could spend time with them. He should have gotten two pizzas, one for the kids and him and one for you, or at the very least one where half the pizza had your favorite toppings and the other half had the kids' favorite toppings. He should have done the clearing up while you slept. For Father's day I would do to him what he did to you, see how he likes a taste of his own medicine.

Sarah Ellison
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think it's great that your husband clearly loves his mother, but I'm sorry, once a man is married, his wife should be his number 1 focus, and once that wife bears his children, SHE is his priority on Mother's day. I'm so lucky to have a mother-in-law who encourages this in her sons. In return, her DILs love her and we encourage our husbands to continue to reach out to her and treat her well because we know that SHE respects us.

Margaret Shannon
Community Member
8 months ago

This comment has been deleted.

DRMAGDN
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In other news, President Woodrow Wilson signed the proclamation to start and celebrate Mother's Day in 1914 which is pretty cool.

AW
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sounds like OP has been repressing her feelings and instead of talking it out with her own family, she turns to BP instead to feel validated. I feel sorry for her feeling disrespected and less important but she has to have a honest conversation with husband and children, own up to her own wants and needs and make them happen instead of playing a resentful doormat. You are your own person, stand up for yourself (even against your own husband and children if needs to be)

Luna Ulla Cieslak
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA! But this could not have been the first time this has happened! Or is it? I am sorry to say that you married a mommy's boy. How would he feel if you spent all of Father's Day with your father and didn't tend to your husband's needs?

Rostit.. .
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I personally think Mothers day and Fathers day are freaking stupid as all hell. Plenty of us can't be parents for one thing. then the idea that you have to celebrate them one day of a year instead of appreciating them all year is even more stupid. ESH. OP is basic AF, the dad is inconsiderate and the whole article is just dumb.

Lyoness
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hon, you got a pizza, which is more than I've ever gotten on mother's day. My hub doesn't even SAY "Happy Mother's day" because I'm not HIS mother. This isn't to say Y T A because you really, really aren't, but you may need to adjust your expectations. Do you and your DH have a good relationship otherwise? Is he the kind of man who'll make you a cup of tea on other days? Or take the kids out so you can sleep in? Buy you flowers just because? It's about balance. I adore my husband and this is the one thing he does (doesn't) do that I despise. So on Mother's Day I spend the day on my own. I leave him with the kids and do what I want, garden, see a movie, shop, whatever. If he wants to see his Mom he can take them with him. Point being, not all men understand that their wives are mothers too, so celebrate yourself. You deserve it.

Laura Annsmith
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're not his mother, he looks at Mothers Day being about his mom, men and women are wired different, sometimes they just dont get it. So when Fathers Day rolls around, just do what you do every day, and make it all about your dad, maybe he will get the point. If you have to force it, it is just not the same. just not the same.

T Ferlisi
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

YTA. I'm going to say it. You did not say that you had clear expectations about what you wanted. "Honey, I would like to be treated special on Mother's day. I'd like time away from the kids but then family time that's all about me. It would be nice to get some of my favorite snacks throughout the day we all watch my favorite movie, and I don't have to clean ANYthing. Last year, I felt that you dropped the ball on Mother's Day, so this year, it would be nice for a treat. I love you for all you do and know you love me too, but I want to make sure this is a great Mother's Day." This clear expectation still allows for him to still plan some surprises with the kids, allows him time to spend lunch with his mom (taking the kids with him), allows you to get a bath and not clean the house. Everyone is happy!

Arlecchino The Knave
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Bro, literally her clear expectation was a cup of tea. But her husband instead gave her a mess and basically didn't think about her at all. That's a s****y husband and your reasoning sounds faulty tbh.

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Hashim Siraj
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Absolutely NTA as you only asked for a cup of tea and a present which is entirely reasonable. Your husband is TAH as first he said he would do something nice for you and slept in, then he had the audacity to COMPLAIN about you waking him up at a reasonable time. Then the only present you received was a gift you helped your daughter get while your husband decided to take his mother on a day trip and spoil her and got her PANDORA which was bad enough but then he didn’t get anything for you and didn’t think of getting your daughter something for you. To top it off he forgot even a basic cake and flowers for you. I am an insensitive 15 year old and I would be nicer than this. I appreciate anyone who takes the time to read this.

Libstak
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So nice to read. Word of advice, don't change your kindness, the world will be full of people who will throw out a "so what", "what's the big deal", "oh well", "who cares, it's not that important" and a thousand other versions of reasoning not to be considerate. The world will be inconsiderate of you and make you want to not care so much about others. But here you are with basic decency, hold like it's the mother load of gold in a Dragons den. I've seen so much and I'm always accused of being too generous, too sensitive, a push over. That's rubbish, I don't let others decide who I am, that is all.

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Trillian
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Maybe you should expect more of him every other day of the year as well. I mean, what use is a cup of tea and a bubble bath once a year if you are being the sole caretaker the other 364 days.

Mine Truly
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Great point!!!!! The dynamic was already broken when he complained about being woken up so she could start his day by making breakfast for him.

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lenka
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think you are the AH and you are not expecting too much but I think there are a few issues at play. I agree with Trillian, when you are supported in your role and space is made for your preferences and self-care ANY time you need it, then mother’s day becomes not such a big deal. You sound very much like you are feeling unappreciated generally – not just because its mother’s day. It’s ok to expect more from your partner every day. Not just once a year.

lenka
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I also wonder how clearly you are communicating your expectations? You can 'mention a few times' but that is not the same as explicitly stating what you want. Instead of staying in bed and telling your husband you are waiting for your tea, you go downstairs and start cleaning. Perhaps your DH thought you no longer wanted tea in bed? If you did, you should have stayed there and told him you were waiting for it. This kind of thing continues all day with you having certain expectations that don't seem to be clearly communicated, your husband rather ignorantly and selfishly going about his day and you ultimately being upset because your needs are not being met. Passive aggressive communication is not effective. I might be off the mark here (I know BP heavily edits these posts and sometimes they come across wrong, so if I have missed the mark, I apologise) but what I do know is that if I want a certain experience I have to explicitly say to my husband “I am expecting tea in bed".

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A S Mora
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. DH, is not so dear and is definitely TA. If this is how he treats her on MOTHER'S DAY, I dread to wonder how he treats her the rest of the year. He shelled out for his mum, but couldn't even be bothered to get pizza with toppings she likes, make her a tea, and tidy up so she could sleep in peace. Given how giving he was to his mum, he knows he's shortchanging her.

oldandexhausted79
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And this is why women are divorcing. Men only need to take note of the small things. We literally tell you what we want, yet you choose to do nothing or get something we never asked for. We just want to be heard. This is also why I divorced and ended up marrying a woman. I can highly recommend.

paddingtonvg
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Absolutely NTA, My parents were divorced and they both made sure the other parent got a mother's/ father's day present from us kids. And would remind us (once we were old enough) to cook breakfast/ dinner for them on that day as well. Yes you are not his mother, but he should be helping your young children to appreciate you and do things for you, not only on mother's day, but every day. Your husband seems like a whiny brat!!!

Ssss
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My honest reaction is that I feel so sorry for you OP. Divorce him. He doesn't appreciate you.

JB
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Late to the party but I hope you read this. It must be especially disheartening when your husband recognizes the importance of Mother’s Day with regards to his mother but you are essentially ignored. I have to agree with other comments that he’s probably not a supportive partner any other day of the year either. Possibly an odd thing to focus on, your comment about him bringing home pizza with toppings you don’t like but you thanked him for being thoughtful so you didn’t have to cook. Speaking in broad generalization, most (?) women are more likely to observe their partner/spouse’s preferences and act accordingly to demonstrate that they see their SO. They don’t need to be told. Whereas the most frequent complaints I’ve heard or observed from men is “Why doesn’t she just tell me what she wants?” A lot of men don’t process hints; plenty of others don’t even process direct communication of what one needs from them. I told my ex for years that every screaming fight he started over something petty eroded my love for him but he was still shocked when I said I was done and started divorce proceedings. What you said was positive reinforcement of his actions when you weren’t actually happy. I completely understand why you take the route of not upsetting him with your disappointment. Nonetheless, what you did was let him know that the way he treated you the whole day was ok with you when it wasn’t. Successful relationships depend on honesty. You don’t have to be harsh or confrontational but you should tell your SO how you really feel rather than pretending to their face that all is well, then posting on social media about your true feelings. When you are disappointed, say so and explain why. When you are hurt, say so and explain why. Honesty is a double edged sword; you may find that you aren’t compatible but it’s a heck of a lot easier to find a way to be each other’s true partner when you don’t hide how you really feel.

Selene Yue
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Honestly I think it's beyond salvaging. This isn't, he got a present that wasn't her taste thing, this is a he completely disregards everything she wanted, yelled at her, made plans to be out with DD and MIL the whole day without even bothering to tell his wife, then woke her up to CLEAN when he got mad she woke him up for food. Her couldn't even be bothered to make her a single cup of tea. My blood pressure went up just reading this story, honestly. Unless he magically gets an epiphany or she decides she's ok being with someone who treats her like a maid forever, there is no salvaging this marriage.

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Janet Graham
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I got miffed at my ex once for not remembering Mother's Day and he made some crack about I was not his mother. Yes, a glimpse as to why that marriage fell apart. In his case, life was all about him. His family, what he wanted, his money, his job blah, blah blah. I see some similarities there with your husband. So maybe plan your own Mother's Day. Leave him with the kids and you go have a girl's day out. Around here, there are so many freebies for mothers. Free flowers, lunches, desserts, and even door prizes. My sisters (all adults) and I did that for my Mom one year and we all had a great time. You may come home to a mess, but there is a good chance that your kids would go with him to fete his mother and leave her the mess :)

Julia H
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get so ticked every time a male voice says, she's not my mom, why do anything. Like, seriously?

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I_imagine_even_worse_w***s
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're definitely not the AH here there are so many ways he could have made an effort. He could have taken both kids to lunch with his mom, came home and made you dinner and put the kids to bed. He could have gotten out of bed and made you breakfast. Cleaned before he went to bed the previous night. Could he not have brought you all out with his mother as a treat for both of you? He also could have followed through on his afternoon tea promise or at a minimum asked what would make the day special for you, some alone time for your bath, breakfast on bed, dinner etc. Because everyone's preferences are different. The dude put zero effort in though. You are rightly miffed by his lack of consideration and effort. I think yiu need to sit down with him and explain calmly why his actions or lack thereof hurt you and what you would have enjoyed.

Karen Timmons
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He sounds like an AH! Your expectations were based on what he said he was going to do and they are the bare minimum for mother's day. My kids used to joke that in our house everyday is mother's day. I know I am very fortunate. To wake you up to clear up after the kids is ridiculous! He needs his attitude adjusted. I am so sorry for your mother's day. NTA

Id row
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think he likes her very much. She's obviously someone not important to him. You shouldn't stay with someone like that.

Emie N.
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Your husband promised to do something nice for you and he sleeps instead. How rude of him! Side note: why do internet people use phrases like "dear husband" or "dear wife" etc. Its kind of weird and cheesy.

Julia H
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm certain some poster, somewhere posted DD, DS, DH (rarely, I see DW) and it stuck

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K. LNU
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I told my friend (when he said that his wife wasn't his mother so why should he do something with her [and the kids] vs. just his mom) that he helped MAKE his wife a mother!! And even though the kids are now young teens, he should maybe celebrate with all the moms in his life. He said that he never thought of it that way.

Manny
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The major takeaway from this article is most (not all but some) men are just selfish. If he does this on Mother's Day I can imagine how he is on her Birthday or Anniversary. If he doesn't care then neither should she.

Mine Truly
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. And it's even fine that you broke down in tears since that's a very normal emotion to experience when someone ignores your mother's day completely while going all out on someone else's. You had reasonable requests. Now that you've shared your emotions on the topic, I'd like to see the two of you sit down for a more level-headed and assertive conversation about why he made you feel slighted and what can be done differently when a situation like this comes up again. My partner and I schedule weekly debriefs where we can go over incidents exactly like this one and work together as a team to make sure both of us have our wishes and boundaries respected. For example, setting clear expectations could have led to him being allowed to sleep as late as needed on his day off with time to celebrate his mother, while also making the time to get you your tea and plan a special dinner that you like. He was tuned out to your needs, and regular communication should fix that.

Eileen Luciano
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA but the husband is definitely the AH and his mother should have asked him what he was doing for you for Mother's day and not taking up the whole day.

Aaaa Bbbb
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. I'd say maybe DH just isn't good at gifts or celebrations (which would be ok, everyone has weaknesses), but he managed gifts and celebration for his mom, that's not the issue. He's just an AH. Show him these responses.

Nina
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Your DH really dropped ball and was quite insensitive talking about his mother enjoyed her mother's day when he did nothing for the mother of his kids. I do wonder how much appreciation he shows the rest of the year though or if he (and maybe the kids as well) take you for granted. When I was that age we were excited to bring our mother breakfast in bed with our own artpieces (we usually made in school), I'm really sorry that doesn't seem the case for you. You are worthy of love, acknowledgement and praise.

Little Miss Lady
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It sounds like you and your husband need to have a talk about expectations and sharing household responsibilities. It should not all fall on you. I am sorry you did not have the Mother's Day you anticipated. You deserve better.

Hey!
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband and I decided to go out together in the goal of getting married. We sat down for 5 hours to list our expectations. One of my big ones was mother/father's day. I am not his mother and he is not my father. I will take care of both our mothers on that day but I don't want anything from him on that day, nor should he expect anything from me. He gave our children money so they could chose what they wanted to give me; I got some weird stuff but I remember doing the same for my parents. We did go to brunches and other activities, but the children wanted to do those and it was acceptable to go. To this day, 35+ years together, we are still okay with this.

Cosmikid
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It REALLY helps for all parties to clearly state their wishes well ahead of time! I want to please you- but can't if I'm mistaken about what you really want! then- tears.

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ThisisEngland
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Welcome to parenthood. It's a thankless task but brings it's own rewards. I've brought my stepsons up with my husband for 15 years and this mother's Day I got a lovely card off the dog and a box of chocolates from my MIL! I don't take it personally. I know they'd miss me if I weren't here. I love the ungrateful little gits all the same. And one day they will be parents themselves and I'm looking forward to choking back the laughter when they realise just how much work and investment parenting takes. As for the husband. If he doesn't appreciate what you do day to day then he's not going to recognise the need to make a fuss of you on behalf of the kids. Don't go to town on father's day. Give him a card from the kids in case they forget and get on with your day in future. Next year tell the family you're having the day off and book a spa day. Tell hubby to make sure your fave takeaway is waiting for you when you get back and have a nice family meal. Don't sweat it. They love you really.

L Coffeen
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. There is no equal division of labor to start. "DH" couldn't finish a single task on his own, and can't even remember to get his wife the scone and tea she asked for. He doesn't even know the pizza toppings she does and doesn't like apparently. He couldn't even clean up on his own, he woke her to "help". I'm not bragging here but my DH goes above and beyond every day and always tries to find ways to help make my day easier or give me a break. on mother's day I get the day OFF to do as I please, whether it's spending time w/ my family while I exert little to no effort to plan or prepare anything, or giving me a spa afternoon and a nice dinner after our little one is asleep. And I don't have to ask, he just DOES it. Bc that is what a loving respectful partner does. If he can't even exert the minimum amount of effort required, i.e. tea in bed or flowers, I would stop giving a c**p for him come June. (Or whenever father's day is in The UK, I'm in the US so it's June).

Barbara Williams
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

For Father's day, you should pack up your son and go visit with your dad. ALL day

brittany
Community Member
8 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i stopped expecting my kids dad to do anything for me during our relationship. i just bought what i wanted for myself and called it a day. my kids of course made mothers day and birthday things for me, which i keep and cherish. there was no effort from him at any point despite me going all out for him on our anniversary, fathers day and his birthday. so i started giving back that same energy. honestly i doubt he ever noticed

Poster
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Holy s**t and all she wanted was a cup of tea and to spend the day with her kids

Radical Mary
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No, you are not the A-hole, he is. He should have woken up early and taken his mom to breakfast and shopping, just him and his mom, until 12 or 1 PM and let you stay home with your kids so you could spend time with them. He should have gotten two pizzas, one for the kids and him and one for you, or at the very least one where half the pizza had your favorite toppings and the other half had the kids' favorite toppings. He should have done the clearing up while you slept. For Father's day I would do to him what he did to you, see how he likes a taste of his own medicine.

Sarah Ellison
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think it's great that your husband clearly loves his mother, but I'm sorry, once a man is married, his wife should be his number 1 focus, and once that wife bears his children, SHE is his priority on Mother's day. I'm so lucky to have a mother-in-law who encourages this in her sons. In return, her DILs love her and we encourage our husbands to continue to reach out to her and treat her well because we know that SHE respects us.

Margaret Shannon
Community Member
8 months ago

This comment has been deleted.

DRMAGDN
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In other news, President Woodrow Wilson signed the proclamation to start and celebrate Mother's Day in 1914 which is pretty cool.

AW
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sounds like OP has been repressing her feelings and instead of talking it out with her own family, she turns to BP instead to feel validated. I feel sorry for her feeling disrespected and less important but she has to have a honest conversation with husband and children, own up to her own wants and needs and make them happen instead of playing a resentful doormat. You are your own person, stand up for yourself (even against your own husband and children if needs to be)

Luna Ulla Cieslak
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA! But this could not have been the first time this has happened! Or is it? I am sorry to say that you married a mommy's boy. How would he feel if you spent all of Father's Day with your father and didn't tend to your husband's needs?

Rostit.. .
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I personally think Mothers day and Fathers day are freaking stupid as all hell. Plenty of us can't be parents for one thing. then the idea that you have to celebrate them one day of a year instead of appreciating them all year is even more stupid. ESH. OP is basic AF, the dad is inconsiderate and the whole article is just dumb.

Lyoness
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hon, you got a pizza, which is more than I've ever gotten on mother's day. My hub doesn't even SAY "Happy Mother's day" because I'm not HIS mother. This isn't to say Y T A because you really, really aren't, but you may need to adjust your expectations. Do you and your DH have a good relationship otherwise? Is he the kind of man who'll make you a cup of tea on other days? Or take the kids out so you can sleep in? Buy you flowers just because? It's about balance. I adore my husband and this is the one thing he does (doesn't) do that I despise. So on Mother's Day I spend the day on my own. I leave him with the kids and do what I want, garden, see a movie, shop, whatever. If he wants to see his Mom he can take them with him. Point being, not all men understand that their wives are mothers too, so celebrate yourself. You deserve it.

Laura Annsmith
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're not his mother, he looks at Mothers Day being about his mom, men and women are wired different, sometimes they just dont get it. So when Fathers Day rolls around, just do what you do every day, and make it all about your dad, maybe he will get the point. If you have to force it, it is just not the same. just not the same.

T Ferlisi
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

YTA. I'm going to say it. You did not say that you had clear expectations about what you wanted. "Honey, I would like to be treated special on Mother's day. I'd like time away from the kids but then family time that's all about me. It would be nice to get some of my favorite snacks throughout the day we all watch my favorite movie, and I don't have to clean ANYthing. Last year, I felt that you dropped the ball on Mother's Day, so this year, it would be nice for a treat. I love you for all you do and know you love me too, but I want to make sure this is a great Mother's Day." This clear expectation still allows for him to still plan some surprises with the kids, allows him time to spend lunch with his mom (taking the kids with him), allows you to get a bath and not clean the house. Everyone is happy!

Arlecchino The Knave
Community Member
8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Bro, literally her clear expectation was a cup of tea. But her husband instead gave her a mess and basically didn't think about her at all. That's a s****y husband and your reasoning sounds faulty tbh.

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