May I ask for some advice? Re: to parents

jag101

My mom and I had a falling out 9 months ago, we are not on speaking terms. She emailed me this am, wondering what she can buy my kids for Xmas. I'm not sure what to do or say. Any suggestions?

CareBear0607

We didn't talk to my MIL for years.  I understand how hard it can be.  I don't know what falling out you had with your mom, but for DH and I, we didn't want our relationship with MIL to get in the way of the kids' relationship with her.  When MIL would ask, I would e-mail a short list and tell her, "thank you for thinking of the kids."

SouthernAcorn

I'm sorry you're in this situation.
I would base my choice on the reason for the falling out. If it was due to personality differences, I don't think it's fair to let your feelings get in the way of a grandchild-grandparent relationship. I really like what PP said about keeping the interactions between the two of you brief and focused on the kids to hopefully create as little new conflict as possible.
However, if the reason is more lifestyle based, (drug use, dangerous behavior, abusive nature, etc.) I would not let that person have any type of interaction with my children until they get themselves together, even if it is just gift giving.