My parents live about 80 miles from me. Unfortunately I do not have a very good relationship with my mother and therefore I stay away from her and avoid contact as much as possible. However, I am quite close to my father and we have a positive relationship.

This past summer my dad turned 60. It hit me that he is not going to live forever. I don't spend much time with him because of the situation with Mom. It's difficult with him married to Mom and living over an hour away. If I lost my dad tomorrow, I would regret that I have not spent as much time with him as I would have liked.

Every now and then I think about him and feel like the weeks and months are just flying by. I am missing valuable time with him. When I do see him my mom is usually there too which means I am nervous and not my usual self. Physically my dad and I may see each other but with Mom there it's barely worth it.

I have seen several posts here from those of you who struggle with the holidays. I do too. The one positive for me is being able to spend them with Dad even though I have some not so good relationships with others.

Just wanted to share my frustration.