Family Gatherings

How many of you can relate to having some reservations or stress about family gathers - regardless the occasion for the get-together?

I know I can totally relate, even though my family is quite small. Mother's Day was no different since I couldn't be certain of my sister's mood and where her jokes would lead the conversation.

I've been told that there is a lot of truth in joking. What is said has serious intent for the joker, but his/her inability to handle it in a direct manner is so difficult that they use passive/aggressive behavior to put their anger/sentiment in a joke.

Luckily for my mom, this was a very pleasant Mother's Day celebration. Everyone seemed in an exceptional mood and had a genuinely good time. I'm so happy because my mom's getting up in her years and I would like her remaining years to be her happiest and most meaningful.