Somebody mentioned above (paraphrasing) that the more you say, the worse you look.
You DON'T get to choose what dad does with the kids. What if dad wanted to pick up the kids and spend his time elsewhere with them? What if dad wanted to fly part of the trip and drive part of the trip? What if dad doesn't want to acquiesce to your demands for any variety of reasons?
Is it possible that dad is just tired of your attempts to control his time with his children?
(Yes, that's how you're coming across.)
My message says I WILL WORK WITH YOU WHATEVER YOU DECIDE.
If he wants to take them to Alaska, I'm fine with it. Whatever he wants.
Why would you assume that I'm not fine with it would be my question?
If you thought my message sounds controlling, I suggest you check your own control issues. You may have some. I have absolutely zero control here. He may or may not show up here to pick up the kids on 5/25 or anytime before or after and I have no control over it. I have no say in it whatsoever, and until she shows up or doesn't show up, I cannot make any plans for myself or the kids otherwise. He can do what he wants when he wants, how he wants, and where he wants.
I'm surprised that your focus is on WHO is in control instead of what the poor kids think when things like this happen. They are confused, worried, and off-balance because they don't know when or if they will see their dad, and I cannot offer any consolation or reassurance.
It's the kids that matter here. Not Dad or Mom or who is in control of who.
Do they get summer with their dad? Do they not? Where do they go? I don't know.
I'll let you know when I do!