Dear Dr. Laura,
I had to write before the holidays hit with a pet-peeve of mine. I have had negative experiences when family comes to stay with us during the holidays. I often hear my mother and my coworkers complaining about the same problems during this season. It may have been for a summer vacation, a holiday or just as snowbirds. We have all noticed that our families tend to take advantage of being our guest. They leave lights on all over the house, take long hot showers, or they decide it's not convenient to help contribute toward the groceries or restaurant bills. In general, they just don't seem to take into consideration what we have to deal with when trying to be a good host. It can be very demanding.
We all agree, it would be nice to have the families volunteer toward the added expenses. It would allow us to say, "No, thank you. It's on us." When my husband and I stay with family, we buy grocery gift cards upon arrival or periodically pick up groceries at a local market. Upon our departure, we leave a thank you card with a restaurant gift card tucked inside. As the holiday approach, let's be mindful of our loved ones and treat them better than we treat anyone else in our lives.
Thank you,
Michelle
What's your favorite holiday family memory? Share it with us,
by signing up for the FREE Dr. Laura Family and send an email here.
