My ex-WIFE WON’T LET ME SEE MY ADULT CHILDREN WHEN THEY VISIT – ryan

Dear Abby: My daughter was living in my garage apartment but then got married and moved away. Her Sister is in Law School in Another State, and Her Brother is even Farther Away in Graduate School. I moved close enough to see them when they come to visit their hometown and their mother.

My ex-wife is flying the two out-of-states ones in for a visit, and I asked her if I could take them to lunch or dinner one of the days they are here. She replied that because she paid for the flights, she does not have to let me have any time with them. (She seems to have forgotten that she obvious me more money than she spent to fly the kids in.)

The last time I asked, she said I could come to her house to see them, but that was it. Because she’s being so unkind about this, I would not be Comfortable. I GUESS I’m Venting because there’s really nothing I can do. Any ideas on how not to feel bad about this?

– Sad Dad in Texas

Dear Dad: Your children are not “kids.” They are adults now. If you want to see them while they are in town, you don’t need to ask your ex-wife. Reach out to them directly and ask what they would like to do. From your description of your relationship with your ex, it’s clear you are not friendly, but don’t let that stop you. You did not mention how close your bond is with your son and soon-to-be-lawyer daughter, but if it’s not too late, keep working to improve it.