I must be an exception to the rule and condider myself extremely fortunate to boot.
I attended the Texas SS Meet last Oct and my wife and daughter had a week in Philadelphia and New York a fortnight ago (Irish World Championships).
Granted, two separate trips meant sacrificing the family holiday.....but both parties/camps got what their preferences/priorities called for.
The only bit that worries me is the underwater (even at 100 feet max) bit