A woman has expressed frustration after her sister refused to contribute to a scrapbook she’s creating for their mother’s 90th birthday.
In a post on the U.K.-based forum Mumsnet, the woman shared that she had asked her family to send photos and messages to include in the sentimental gift. Despite giving everyone months to gather materials, her eldest sister declined to participate, claiming she “hasn’t got time” and that the gift was from the woman alone, as she already had her own present ready.
“Pretty much everyone has contributed, except my eldest sister,” the woman wrote. “She says it’s a gift from me, and she’s already got her gift sorted! Kind of not the point!!”
While not entirely surprised, the woman expressed disappointment, as this was not the first time her sister had refused to help with similar efforts in the past. She said she was considering replying to explain her feelings but wasn’t sure if it was worth the effort.
“She’s not stupid. She’s doing it to try and sink my idea,” she added, though she assured readers that she had plenty of other contributions for the scrapbook. “But am I being unreasonable in thinking she’s a complete cow??”
Many commenters suggested that the woman should include photos of her sister and mother in the scrapbook, even if her sister didn’t contribute. Some also pointed out that the situation might be more complicated and that the dynamics of the sister’s relationship with their mother could explain her reluctance.
One commenter sided with the sister, writing, “I hate when people turn their gift into a job for me. It would be different if it was a group effort, but if everyone hadn’t agreed beforehand, I’d feel the same way.”
Another person suggested that the sister might simply not appreciate the idea of the scrapbook: “She might think it’s a bit naff and just doesn’t want to contribute. Some people, like me, would rather give something more personal than a photo book.”
While some disagreed with the sister’s stance, the consensus seemed to be that the woman should not take the refusal personally and instead focus on the positive contributions she has received.
“You’re clearly excited to do something special for your mum,” a commenter said, “and if your sister doesn’t agree, just leave her out of it.”
