Doing Without

Because my husband switched jobs, we've been without a normal paycheck for the last 6 weeks. He's getting a small draw each week, but will get paid for all his commissions on the 15th of July. Money has been and will continue to be tight until his first commission check. The children have been really good about not asking to do things that cost money and making do with strange, but nutritious meals.

The Fourth of July is coming up and we have been invited to my mom's home for the holiday. My 20 year old daughter needs to be to work at 5:00pm. My husband will get home from work around 7:30pm. I simply don't have the money for the gas to drive to my mom's twice. I told my mom that we would be coming, but would need to leave around 4:15. She was disappointed and wanted me to let my brother and sisters take my family home later. Most of my siblings do not live in my town. There are 7 of us that will need transportation. All my siblings have 4 or more children. I don't want to inconvenience anyone. I don't want people to take several trips to drop my family off. I'd rather do what I can afford to do.

I know that it's selfish of me. It's a small thing and no one would begrudge my family a lift. My mom would really like all of my family to be at her home until 9:00 or 10:00 pm. I want to see my husband before he falls asleep. I don't want to ask another favor because money is tight for us right now. I'm dreading the holiday because either I'm uncomfortable or my mom is disappointed. Why are holidays so difficult?