I wanted to report that my youngests sisters children decided not to attend this family thing either. My oldest sister had an emotional melt-down(sort of) and my youngest sister went home to her husband in tears as a result. He exchanged angry e-mails with my oldest which ended in a non-forgivness pact from him to her. He is a guy who doesn't make empty threats. This works well for me, though. I saw this coming a mile away, this angry exchange etc.. I feel validated for not attending. My mom is upset though. She just wants her family to "get-along" which is understandable, even commendable. It isn't realistic in todays world of instant gratification though. She grew up in a different world. So, this is a sort of happy ending, if anyone is interested. Thanks