Mother's Day

I was on the bus yesterday and a British guy was on the phone talking about what his siblings were getting their mom for Mother's Day. It made me cry a little bit, especially since my Great Uncle died the other day and although I was not close to him, it makes me worry about my other family members, especially my mom because she is chronically ill (yet with a very strong spirit). I am going to see my family next month. It has been the longest time apart from them now; ten months (and over a year since I have been in the States). I find myself getting a bit anxious about the visit, wondering if I will get to have quality time with my family, especially my parents and wondering if my husband's first time in the States will be good for him. I just find that now that the trip is getting closer, I am actually feeling more worried about the visit because if you do not get to see your family that often you want to have a good time when you do see them, but it is never going to be perfect. Can anyone else relate?

Sorry to hear you're having a rough time. I hope that you have a nice visit with your family, and that your mom is doing well.

Visiting is tricky, because there are just so many people to see, and so much to get accomplished. It can be very overwhelming when you only have a short while to get everything done, and spend quality time with your friends and family.

Thanks very much for your reply, kate_mate. It is so nice to hear from someone who can relate to some of my feelings! 'Overwhelming' is a great word for this; fortunately, I already have a plane ticket to see my family in November (without my husband), so I don't have the stress of wondering when I will see them after this upcoming visit.

I can totally relate - It hasn't been as long since I've seen my family as it has been for you but it's always hard.  I sat next to someone on the bus yesterday who was chewing the same brand of gum that my mom always chews (always - her purse permanently smells like it) and just smelling it again made me cry.
I desperately miss everyone but going to visit builds expectations up so high that trying to make it perfect becomes so stressful you can lose sight of the actual point. 
Hugs and more hugs, I hope you can find a way to relax and and enjoy seeing everyone.  It's great that you already have your next ticket - I find that no matter how far in the future it is, just knowing that it's waiting there helps..

Dragonnfly, Thanks so much for your message.  It definitely made me feel comforted to know that someone else could relate to my feelings. Thanks and take care. :-)