I started on HRT about 3-4 months ago and it’s been LIFECHANGING in a good way. Things it improved:
Overall mood–much less crabby and anxious
Gardening time much less painful, overall more comfortable
Very slight weight loss–mostly in the mid-section
Hot flashes gone
Night sweats gone
Brain fog improved
Skin fragility improved–this is minor but I’ve noticed an improvement in my overall skin elasticity and tone
My body and mood just feel more balanced, in a way that’s hard to pinpoint or articulate but it’s wonderful

agreed, that comment about MIL “sitting on at least $10M” just sounded…off.

Yeah, but you aren’t paying for a hotel for them to golf in gross weather at home.

Thiiiiiisssssss!

I agree!

When I helped organize a family reunion, we did up a program that included some structured activities. For example, you might have “Obama Presidential Museum” as a 10 am activity, with lunch at the museum if people want. People don’t have to go, but folks really appreciated this. The hospitality suite is an excellent idea. If the hotel allows, a Costco run for beverages and snacks is a good idea. We had a pizza and salad dinner one night in our suite. Yes, people should chip for these costs, unless the uncles want to pay for it, or a few of the older or better off people. Slide shows of family photos is a great evening activity, as well as something like a round of Bingo (really!) with prizes to get people laughing. I think what you are suggesting as “do your own thing” makes it less reuniony.