My mom’s birthday is coming up, and I’ve been thinking about seeing her, possibly taking her out to eat to dinner. Or lunch even. I haven’t seen her since a couple of days before Christmas last year, although she only lives 45 minutes away.

I’d like to say it’s all due to COVID, but that’s more like the excuse, not the entire reason. Life does get busy, but I could still take the time to stop by, especially since many places we visit are just in town. I have spoken to her over the phone or mostly overhear her talk to my daughter when she calls. And I do talk to other family members who keep tabs on her, so I know she’s doing alright. She’s pretty independent anyway and likes to do her own thing.

She had to live with me, though, for a few months two years ago, when she got sick and was hospitalized for a few days. But as soon as she was well enough to leave, she left my house, just like that. Her doctor even told her to wait another month! She even left a lot of her stuff behind that I had to drop off after.

I think ever since then, I knew for a fact that she didn’t enjoy staying with my family and me. I’ve noticed that she spends less time with my family during an entire year than with my sister and brother in the Philippines when she goes every year for a whole month! Last Thanksgiving, I asked her directly why that was, but she just made up some nonsense excuse and couldn’t give me a straight answer.

I’ve avoided her after that conversation. I’m not one to force someone to come over and see me. But then again, she is getting old. Maybe I should just get over myself and visit her with my kids. I know they’ll all have a great time. Perhaps it won’t be so unbearable for me.