I'm sorry you had to go through that. I just went through it this past Christmas. One of my aunts, who I wasn't even talking to, butted into my conversation with my cousin's wife just to say that I shouldn't go every year. She said I should save the money for my kids' college tuition and that I just shouldn't go every year.
I don't understand how it is anyone's business. It was sort of the last straw with me in regards to that side of the family. They have never fully accepted me as my dad is technically my step-dad. However, he has been the only dad I have ever had. I told my dad I have tried for years, and I am just done with it. I stood up for myself to her as well, and it caused a lot of back and forth between my dad and her via text. I had to apologize to my dad, but he was very understanding.
What kills me is that she was just talking about taking a vacation to Mexico. She is broke, so I have no idea why she is telling me how to spend my money that we work very hard for. To top it off, her own sister goes often, but she has never said a word to her. Whatever. Guess I'm off the hook when it comes to that side of the family's get-togethers. Thank the Lord for small blessings.
No matter what anyone says, or how they think I should be spending my money, it doesn't matter. My kids are growing up. My son can move out in two years if he wants! I won't get these years back, so it is important to me to make as many memories with them as I can. This year is our time to pause and take a break for ourselves to celebrate 15 years of marriage though, so we are recognizing what an amazing feat that is nowadays and going on a 15 year late honeymoon!
I'm honestly at the point where I dare someone to tell me I shouldn't go. It is none of their business!!! People can be nosey and rude. I just don't put up with it anymore. That being said...most of the people I know are excited to hear about our trips and ask when we are going next. I just went to a Women of Worth meeting at church, and several women came up to me telling me that my daughter (7) has been telling them that we are going without her! They laughed and had a good time talking about it. Those are the kind of women I like to be around.