I had to avoid my mother, once for 4 years another for 10 years. I had to do it for my sanity...to be honest it was the happiest years of my adult life.
We are now back together again, I have my bounderies in place, yet she still is a PIA, she is 81 and still drinking..no end in sight...
Do what's best for you, that is the key.
Merry Christmas,
Dolly