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I learned today that my grandfather on my mother's side of the family is going to be turning 90 this year.

He was born on Christmas Eve.

Growing up, my family and I ALWAYS went to a family reunion for my mother's side on Christmas Eve.

I stopped attending it for 3 years now (at least, it will be 3 years this Christmas Eve).

My relatives are now asking me again if I am going to be coming down, but I have yet to tell them what my husband and I think about this.

If everyone doesn't know the story, basically my parents and I have been on bad terms since Christmas Eve those 3 years ago. I would explain everything, but I don't really feel like it now. It is also a long story.

But yeah, I don't go to the reunions anymore because my parents will be there and I am not ready to deal with them in person.

I also feel that it isn't fair that I am expected to come to some family reunion on CHRISTMAS EVE every single year. I know it is mainly for my granddaddy's birthday, but really... I am entitled to celebrate Christmas my own way now.

I know though that I can't always put off seeing my relatives forever...

So my husband and I decided that we're going to try to see my grandparents this spring, if it is ok with them, and I am sure it will be.

And my husband tells me that if any of my grandparents drop dead before then that I shouldn't blame myself...

God, I hope that doesn't happen.