Family gatherings change over time as does your place and role in the family too. As a mom of little children, your role is that of a leader, but as a mom of adult children, your role is much more of a collaborative team member than a leader.
For any family gathering, it is a good idea to consider your role, expectations and promises you make to yourself ahead of the event. For every individual and family, the list will look a bit different, but for me, the list includes the following elements.
Healthy
The more we stick to healthy food and activity, the happier everyone is. When we deviate from that, people tend to be more sluggish and less happy.
Curiosity
Bringing a curious attitude to family events really helps when it comes to catching up with your many family members and their loved ones. Typically families represent a wide array of lifestyles, interests, activities and endeavor. There's lots to learn and enjoy if you bring a curious, non judgemental attitude to the event.
Reserve judgement
When people are too critical they can ruin family events. Families will often disagree, but keeping those disagreements sensitive and private is a good idea. Public judgement and disagreement often results in painful discord.
What you will and won't do
Think about the behaviors that help you to have a great family gathering as well as the behaviors that tend to get in the way. Promise yourself that you'll stick to the behaviors that contribute to positivity rather than negativity and stick to your promises.
Helpful objects, clothing and equipment
Bring with you the objects and equipment you need to have a good time. If your destination will not have the foods or drinks you need, bring them with you. Consider the weather and bring clothing that will help you to have a good time and engage in all the activities available. If you can't take part in all the activities, plan some activities that you can partake in and enjoy.
Ask questions
If you don't know what to expect about an event, ask questions--it's better to know than to be surprised or unprepared.
Family gatherings have the potential to be warm, memorable happy events, but sometimes, when we don't take the time to plan well or consider our expectations, those events may be challenging instead. Best to prepare well and consider your expectations ahead. Onward.