Since these family get-togethers are pretty unpleasant, why do you go to them? Are they required? Why put yourself thru that kind of misery? I know parents sometime expect you to come to these things, but you're grown up - you can decide whether or not you want to go. And if these things are that unpleasant, I surely wouldn't go, only to be put-down all the time.

Some families can be toxic and we have to put some distance between us and them. There's nothing wrong with that. It's just something we have to do for our own sanity and mental health! I think I'd send my "best wishes" but tell them I just can't make it the next time.

I wish you the very best. Please take care of yourself & God bless. Hugs, Lee