Do you suspect that 'peer' pressure will have any impact? Hey ALL...lets all drop our lives and run to Miami for the event!!! Family? Screw them.... they will be getting a better version of me afterwards...! Job? Hey if my boss doesn't understand it's not MY problem! I can work anywhere for $6.25 an hour! Money? Maybe I can borrow from friends, take out a loan or perhaps I can beg for it!
Have we no shame!
Anyone recall the sometimes subtle and sometimes not so subtle attitude from other premies if we said we couldn't go to a 'program'?
Hehehehe..... Premies can be so heartless!
Shelagh, I commend your ability to keep silent and watch your friend as she goes through her 'processing'. Hope you let her know you will be there no matter what! 
