DEAR ABBY: My husband and I completed construction on our retirement home five years ago. Even though we're not retired, we were able to move in. We are now 3 1/2 hours away from family.
We have repeatedly invited family members to enjoy our hospitality at holiday or vacation time. Some of them have taken us up on the invitation at least once. However, one of my brothers has never been here.
We have a lovely log cabin on a lake, and it can accommodate all family members for a gathering. Our relatives cite the long drive as the reason for staying away, while they think nothing of taking a hunting or fishing trip nearby.
I have stopped asking. My mom thinks I should continue extending invitations. Truthfully, it is a lot less work and expense to not host. Who's right? -- ENOUGH ALREADY IN MICHIGAN
DEAR ENOUGH: You are. By now your relatives are well aware that they are welcome. Continue to invite those who have accepted and reciprocated your hospitality, because it should be apparent that the ones who have declined are not interested. And explain that to your mother, who long ago should have stopped telling you what to do.