2006-12-29 02:00:00 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Family & Relationships ➔ Family
You don't. You simply host the family while they are there and clean up the mess when they leave. The same thing that you do when you visit your parents home. I'm sure you don't stay around and help clean up after your family. Thank you.
2006-12-29 02:03:03 · answer #1 · answered by cookie 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This depends on whether it is an overnight stay or a simple housewarming party. For parties, I plan on doing the clean-up myself but occasionally I'll ask a close friend if they can give me a hand for a few minutes. Many times, others will pitch in too.
For overnight or longer, the rules change. I have a small plaque that I found in a catalog that I thought was hilarious and hung it in my kitchen. It says "Don't confuse hospitality with endurance." Most people see it and get a kick out of it, then share their own hostess nightmares with me. But still, we know where we all stand with each other. I also have a small framed sign in my guest room like one I saw at another persons house years ago. It is a humerous list of Do's and Don'ts for guests, yet it still gets the point across. It is tasteful yet funny and makes guests aware that as much as I love their visits, I am only one person and can't do it all. I have never had anyone NOT help me around the house.
Since this is family you are speaking of, you shouldn't hesitate to request a helping hand in general clean-up duties after meals. Many guests, family included, sometimes feel at a loss as to what is expected of them in another persons house. Most people would not be offended if asked to give a helping hand for a short time.
2006-12-29 02:49:40 · answer #2 · answered by sunnygirl1 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just ask them. Say "Thanks so much for coming over and it was really great to have you all here..." Then look around and sigh a bit..."I don't suppose you all would mind helping me out a bit before leaving? I'd really appreciate the help." But don't put too much work on them because after all you're the host and they're guests but they are family and should offer to help no problems. My mom always...always at least does dishes for me before she leaves when she visits...my husbands mother is the same way. We return the favors whenever we visit them. It's only fair and polite to at least offer, even if they refuse to let you help them.
2006-12-29 02:04:24 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Usually, most people will offer to help, however, don't expect it. Everyone is different. Just start clearing dishes before they leave. Someone will offer to help. If not, that's just part of entertaining.
2006-12-29 02:10:09 · answer #4 · answered by Apple21 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Fish and houseguests stink after three days. LOL.
That being said...
The real issue is whether you run your house or others run you. If you want help, ask for it directly and politely. If anyone refuses, they look like a jerk. Laugh at them.
Offer to make it more social... "let's... do such and such" instead of would you do this or that.
2006-12-29 02:19:03 · answer #5 · answered by Stargatebabe 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This is your family! Just throw the dish towel at them. They should know better anyway!
2006-12-29 02:49:06 · answer #6 · answered by INDRAG? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋