This 13-year old would have loved a book on makeup. I did get a book that year. It was either a James Herriot or Gerald Durrel. My mother was also not great at gifts. One of her great failings was choosing really personal things for me, and completely missing the mark. My taste simply was not hers. Because it was to be a surprise, it never occurred to her to ask. Like the green bedroom curtains. For my first own bedroom. I hate green. I hated the curtains.
My mum and I were never friends. That you have that with yours, notwithstanding the makeup book faux pas, is a treasure.
PS I forgot to say: I love the mobile dreamcatcher! Kind of apt.
It definitely sounds like you and your Mum were at odds and I think I've heard this before. Sorry to hear that. I am very aware of how lucky I am, even though she got me that one shitty gift at 13😂. I would have given you the book 😂
Yes, you have probably heard this before. I have accepted the scratching of your relationship. It was what it was. I doubt, were she still around, it would have changed.
I accept the book with 😊 Thank you