Family Visits Don't Have To Destroy Home

By Kassidy Emmerson, Contributing writer

You and your mate are baby boomers who are finally enjoying the freedom that comes with also being "empty nesters." Life is as quiet -- or not -- as you want it to be.

Then comes the news that the kids and their families are coming home for a vacation visit or a long holiday weekend. You both love seeing the family, but too many family members in one house can mean turmoil and chaos. Before you become anxious and start dreading their arrival, here are some tips that will help you get through it all in one piece.

Lay Down the Ground Rules

When family members come together under the same roof, the best way to maintain peace and gain cooperation is to lay down some ground rules.

According to Harriet Baskas of USAToday.com, letting your visitors know things such as whether alcohol or cigarette smoking is allowed in your house will help them be better guests.

Don't Overdo It

The typical idea of being the perfect host means bending over backward and going all out whenever guests or family visit. That's not being a host, that's being a maid, a cook, a dishwasher, a chauffeur, a tour guide and more.

While your company may appreciate your tending to their every need, you're going to be too stressed and too tired to enjoy their visit. You may even develop a bit of resentment toward them. Instead of trying to be a super host, accept help from the family whenever they offer it. And it's not wrong to expect guests who are coming home for a vacation visit or a long holiday weekend to do simple chores such as making their own beds and picking up after themselves

Don't Leave Yourself Stranded

Instead of giving up your own vehicle, coping with family visits will be easier for baby boomers like yourself if your guests have their own transportation. Your family can get a good deal on a rental car by checking Web sites such as Travelzoo.com beforehand.

Keep Your Humor Intact

According to Dr. Mona Ackerman, a clinical psychologist with a private practice in New York, using humor during family visits can be an effective "defense mechanism against inner chaos and anxiety." She recommends that we accept the fact that all families are dysfunctional.

Whether we like it or not, we have to realize that even our own family falls into this category. Therefore, we need to lower our expectations and look for the humor in all situations.

Plan Meals

Another tip baby boomers can use in coping with extended visits from the family is to plan what you're going to cook before they arrive, according to Cape Business News. That way, you can buy the food items you need when they're on sale and save money.

Family meals don't need to be elaborate seven-course affairs, either. If you want to impress your company, you can cook simple international favorites such as Japanese chicken, heaven and earth soup and cheesy poblano rice soup. You can find plenty of delicious ideas online at Revolutionhealth.com.