She wants to put off my full payment -- should I say yes just this one time?

[5 Little Monkeys]

Again, just my opinion, but if you are going to stew over this and resent her for it than don't do her the favour. If she's gone through a couple other dc's already there must be a reason why. If you happen to know who they are maybe you could contact them and ask?

I understand we all have different priorities but IMO bills come before birthdays, especially at such a young age where they will not even remember it. It also wouldn't be the end of the world if she paid you on time and celebrated the birthday a different day.

[bright sparks]

I understand we all have different priorities but IMO bills come before birthdays, especially at such a young age where they will not even remember it. It also wouldn't be the end of the world if she paid you on time and celebrated the birthday a different day.

I agree, birthday parties are generally not on the day anyway so to do after next payday wouldn't actually be out of the ordinary. I think it's more likely that she is feeling the guilt of an inadequate parent going through a divorce and she wants to make her child happy. It's not rational thinking but I can totally accept that regardless this is how a lot of parents act when they are feeling emotionally unstable and flustered during a difficult period. Not thinking straight is to be expected and I would imagine throwing a birthday bash and seeing the child happy will make her temporarily feel better. It may seem ridiculous to those not going through it but in that moment what may be best, may not be clear in ones mind. Do whatever is going to fit in with your business best. If as a result of a good will gesture it leaves you in hardship then it's a no brainer choice. Regardless of this person circumstances and their reasons for doing x, y and z and our opinions on her choices, good or bad, it's just something you need to be careful about moving forward to prevent being taken further advantage of, or leaving you in a tight spot. It's always easy to sit on the other side of the fence assuming, but in reality we tend not to have a full picture of things. I'm Sure you will do what works best for you SWD.