I don't often loose my temper, but I have today. Mindful of the fact that youngsters visit here now and then, I won't be using the words that are actually on my mind. I don't intend to use the cutsey symbol replacements for certain letters, but don't let all that lull you into thinking that I am kidding about being angry!
You have probably read about the baby shower that we are giving for two of the women in my family. I sent invitations to 39 family members who live within driving distance, and hoped that about 32 or so of them would attend.
So far, two of my four siblings (and their spouses, and two kids) will not be attending. I'm assuming that one of my stepsons will not be attending, since he never replied. Today, I learned that one of my nieces called my sister to tell her that she was just too busy to attend. And there are others.
If I have the count right, 26 people will be participating, and four of them are the couples who will be having the babies.
I can't describe how angry I am about this, but I can tell you WHY I'm angry. I have never had any children. DH has gifted me with four step children who have chosen not to blend with my family, and perhaps now I can see why.
I have attended graduations, bridal showers, weddings and baby showers for all my nieces and nephews. I have been to the hospital to visit some of them or their spouses. I've gone to concerts, and pagents and church fund raisers. I've purchased girl scout cookies and boy scout popcorn, and class rund raiser items.
I have tried my best to be a loving aunt, and have supported them not only as children, but also as adults.
I have NEVER asked my family to acknowledge one of my step children before. They have never sent birthday cards, or attended concerts. My step children chose not to invite them to their weddings, but my siblings could have at least sent a note or a card wishing them well. The ONE time I ask my family's support.....it's not there.
The cleanest way to describe how I feel right now is to say that I'm livid. I don't think "Madder than a wet hen" comes close. I'm setting my thoughts down here so that Dear Husband doesn't get the brunt of my anger.
I truly hope those of you who read this have families you can depend upon . If you do, give them hugs, and tell them "Just because!"
Comments (2)
I feel for you, Buffy. It's really hurtful when our families don't live up to our reasonable expectations. Unfortunately, we don't have much close family so we don't get to have such family centered gatherings; so I'm a bit jealous that you can put that many names together. I'm thinking soothing thoughts toward you.
Posted by Cop Car | March 19, 2004 8:00 AM
Posted on March 19, 2004 08:00
I'm getting in on this a bit late, but I just wanted to say that I can definitely relate. I have a cousin who is only 7 years old, and her mom feels that her age is a reasonable excuse to not be involved with anything that could be deemed boring. She missed my highschool graduation as well as my other cousin's one year later, and my brothers just last August. She said she wasn't going to attend my own and my cousin's (same school so it's only one ceremony) college graduation in December and only came when I actually called her and told her that she HAD to come. Honestly, I have to force my own aunt to come to my college graduation?? Yet, any minor little thing her own daughter does, I'm expected to be there at the drop of the hat. I was given a huge guilt trip because I couldn't take a day off work to watch her kindergarten class sing songs one day!
Sorry this was a long comment, but I just wanted to say I know how frustrating it can be. I'm sorry things aren't working out as you planned, but I hope the parties go well :)
Posted by Jenniy | March 19, 2004 11:37 AM
Posted on March 19, 2004 11:37