Barb,

Have you actually told her that you are sad that she doesn't visit, and as Lightstar said, have you actually called and asked her over? If you try now, she might be a bit apprehensive at first since it has been some time since you spoke, but maybe she is feeling down about something which is not so obvious? E.g. often when I speak to Danny or read books psychologists have written, people often will act based on past experiences and/or how they were brought up (conciously or unconciously). Perhaps her mother didn't have a very good relationship with her or didn't help her much when she had her child? Hence maybe she is waiting for you to ask for help?

I would especially think this is the case if she was much more welcoming and would visit more often previously. Perhaps she is worried you might think she is interfering etc... the possibilities are endless, so I would strongly suggest that you take the bull by it's horns so to speak and break the ice. Tell her you really would love her to visit and be a part of your baby's life... because it is amazing what difference it makes when you have a great relationship with your mother, when you are a mother yourself. My mum and I were on awkward terms for a long time after Marisa's birth, all that resulted was that she was sad to have missed out on so much and I ended up stressed out and with PND as I had no other help I could call on.

Something to think longer term when things are calmer, perhaps you could ask her about her experiences as a new mum - what was it like for her? Might help with the bonding and you both might have a better understanding of each other.

Good luck - I hope you guys are able to work something out. It's a special time.