My family can't move past the past. How should I react?

My husband and I seperated for a time, but have choosen to get back together. Although it was an ugly seperation it could have been worth. My family is having a tough time excepting our being back together and asked for time before seeing him at family parties. I understand they need time, but asked them to understand I could not come to the parties without him because I am not comfortable going to parties as a single person and because it would be difficult on my children. Some family members are very angry with me for choosing not to come without him as they feel they were there for me when I needed them and I should retrurn the favor by respecting their wishes dispite that I will have to make up a story to my chldren as to why their daddy can't come to the family party. What is your opinion?