Any shrinks out there I need some couch time

[jams]

Yes I have other siblings. 4 more to be exact but I am the only one with a voice.

My other sister is so business minded that she just treats things as an appointment. 'just tell me when and where I need to be'" kind of attitude.

My one brother disagrees with having my parents travel and was not consulted but does not have enough of a backbone to speak up and say something.

My other brother is a big teddy bear who never makes waves and just goes with the flow.

Since people don't speak up they all enable the behavior and it continues.

Amazing how key people were kept out of the original arrangements so the plan could move forward. We were only brought into the loop after the flights were booked.

My sister asked everyone a year ago about a family vacation to celebrate my Mom's 75th and everyone said no. So rather than taking this cue, she plans a family vacation. She is like a little kid that wants something. She will say or do anything to get it and justifies everything by saying it is for Mom. ( I get visions of cool-aid drinkers) The end does not justify the means.

[jams]

I joke about couch time and due to family issues I have actually spent plenty of time there.

It is wonderful to feel validated and hear some of the same advice I heard from a professional.

It is also nice to know that I am not the only one who struggles with family issuse. Tomorrow is the big party.

[Jamo]

Sitting in a corner with coffee (and Baileys) has always worked for me.

[jams]

Well I survived the party. Sometimes I need to bouce my thoughts off others to make sure I am not the crazy one. I always try to remain as objective as possible. It was a great day for my mom and that is what it was all about. Unfortunately I had to deal with all of the drama, which spoiled the fun for me but not for my mom.

Of course it is always hard to have your dad walk up to you and say "Hi and what's your name?"

[Jamo]

Ya done good.

[blykins]

I agree with 'mo......you put the priority on making your parents happy, which is very good.

Every one of us has a family member that sometimes makes things a little rough. Sometimes you gotta grin and bear it....and bide your time until you can set them straight.....

Sorry to hear about your dad....I can't imagine how terribly hard that is. That is one of my nightmares.

[trularin]

Good advice.

[Wayne Maybury]

One final thought, why not tell your sister that you paid your share this time but if she ever pulls a stunt like this again, she is on her own as you will not give her a cent unless you are consulted in advance. Try to get your other sister and your brothers to join in but go on your own if you have to.

By the way, you did good for your parents.

Wayne