Aruba is Calling

We have been in Aruba several years ago, well I did not like.

In my own family, people prioritize material status, and even my sister's children look down on me. But I remain strong and respect them.

No, I haven't seen any of my cousins in years. They are either in Canada, Washington state, Arizona, or Missouri.

I'm sorry you can't go but you obviously know your limitations.

I've never been close to my cousins; and when my father disowned me when I moved out at 21, I lost touch with my whole family. Three cousins, at first, kept in touch; but now they don't contact me anymore even though I send Christmas cards, etc.

Sounds like such a wonderful tradition, and it’s great that your family has kept it going for so many years. Aruba does sound beautiful, especially with everyone sharing a big place together. I should also make it in my wishlist. It’s nice that you can feel content about not going rather than disappointed. Knowing your limits, especially with heat and travel costs, really matters. A cruise would definitely change the emotional equation, so your perspective makes sense and is right! What really stands out is how much fun your cousins seem to have together. Trips like that are often more about the people than the place anyway. I can already imagine the stories that will come back with your sister. Those moments are precious! As for me, being close to cousins was difficult as I lived in different countries from the time I was born and we usually met only on few occasions. Never got to know each other well.

No, most of them are quite a bit younger than me. The two that aren't there was a divorce, and have seen them very sporadically since then. They don',t remember the games we played as kids

Yes. But I guess not to all. I have cousins who love me sleeping over with them and go shopping with them. But others they just love to entertain me for a bit when I am in their house but they outcast me when they are about to go somewhere else to enjoy. heheheh.

When we were kids, we were close to 3 of my cousins, but we drifted a part.

I barely know any of my cousins. I know some nieces and nephews but don't really know their kids at all. All of dad's side of the family are gone now and mom's side of the family lived too far away to visit.

We were never that close. Hope they have a great trip

What few relatives I have left are in Latvia, and they have their own lives to live. Sometimes I think abnout that; these relative are also with families and doing all right for themselves. if they really cared about one stranded member in the US, they could figure out how to get me back but no one cares.

I'm closed to some of my cousins especally those who are I used to communicate and often meet.