[sageofages]

Originally posted by RedRoseSAI
Here's the deal:

Every year, my family (me, MrRR, mom, dad, grandmas, aunt, uncle, cousin) get together for a New Year's Day brunch at my parent's house.

I hate it. In addition to being the day after a big party night, it always turns into a miserable time, for reasons I won't go into. Every year, my mom insists on doing it, and every year, everyone goes along with it, even though no one wants to.

My question - how do we put a stop to this? I seriously can not convey what an unpleasant experience this little brunch has turned become. It's a horrible way to start the year. I was practically in tears by the time it was over last year, and I am determined not to start 2006 in the same manner. Last year I suggested that "we all do our own thing" for New Year's Day, and my mom pooh-poohed the idea ("Everyone loves the New Year's Day brunch!"). I can't think of a good excuse why we wouldn't be able to go this year, but I'm all ears for some advice.

Thanks in advance.

How about offering an alternative...

"We know how you love doing this, but this year, we have decided that we are giving you a richly deserved start to a new year and take you to a champagne brunch at *insert a great establishment in your area*...and we won't take NO for an answer as reservations have already been made!"

And leave it at that...send out the word to the rest of the family..."brunch at *wherever* at 11:30 am" rsvp to RedRoseSAI who is coordinating the reservations.