Lately, I’ve started to feel that my daughter and son-in-law are beginning to see me as an old woman. I’m not complaining, but it stirs up strange emotions.
Two days ago, I turned 46 and decided to celebrate the day with friends at a cozy restaurant. The evening went wonderfully, and afterward, I organized a dinner at my place for my daughter and son-in-law.
When they arrived, my son-in-law handed me a beautiful bouquet of roses, and my daughter gave me an envelope. Smiling, I took it, but immediately sensed there was something unusual inside. I opened the envelope, was shocked, and now I don’t even want to talk to my daughter.
Inside was a gift – a 10-day package at thermal spas, including full services: massages, hot springs, and a diet plan.
My daughter said excitedly, “Mom, look what we brought you!”
I tried to hide my surprise: “You know I don’t like gifts like money. It’s a bit boring.”
“Mom, it’s not money! You’ll definitely like it.”
I opened the envelope and read the offer. Massages, hot springs – everything seemed fine, but… I just can’t picture myself in such places. That’s for older people!
“Thank you, but thermal spas… That’s more for older folks, right?” – I couldn’t hide my displeasure.
My son-in-law, surprised, replied, “But these aren’t regular spas! They’re in the mountains, with fresh air and beautiful nature. We found a place with comfortable rooms and lots of activities!”
“Activities for retirees?” – I couldn’t hold back. “You know I don’t like places where I have to spend time with people who are much older than me!”
“But you want to rest, relax! This is a unique experience!” – my daughter tried to explain.
I tried to clarify: “I do want to relax, but not like this! Why not pick something that makes me feel alive?”
My son-in-law, noticing the tension, stepped in: “We just wanted you to unwind a little. We thought you’d like it.”
“Sure, this might suit someone over 70, but not me! I don’t want to spend time with people much older than me, doing treatments.”
I was disappointed, and in that moment, I felt the whole mood collapse. When they left, without apologizing, I was left alone with that stupid envelope in my hand.
I still can’t believe my daughter sees me this way.
