As the holidays approach, families are often faced with the yearly dilemma of whose family to visit at Christmas.
Both sets of grandparents are eager to see their grandchildren, so how do families resolve the holiday conflict? Some do the 'trade off' deal, but even then not everyone is happy, especially the grandparents who miss their own children and grandchildren.
What can families do to keep Christmas a joyous time rather than a burden? Resolving the issue rather than letting the debate cause trouble in the family is the first step.
One way that many families are tackling the holiday travel issue is to get both sides of the family involved in creating a 'Holiday Central' where everyone is invited to celebrate together.
Where do you start? Naturally, the first step will be to decide where holiday central will be.
When it's your nuclear family's turn to sponsor the location, here are some tips for making the holiday easier and even more enjoyable for all.
oThe next important step is making the sleeping arrangements.
This can be as easy as putting up air mattresses.
Teenagers will be happier in a room with a television so they can watch movies or videos.
With all of the noise and activity that comes with a large family setting, grandparents may feel more comfortable in rooms with big beds and separate bathrooms where they can have some quiet time if needed.
oWith everyone celebrating together, there will most likely be small children, so be sure to take into consideration what to do with the little kids.
Little children will most likely be more comfortable sleeping with their parents.
School age kids will get a kick out of sleeping bags.
Give the kids sleeping bags and pillows in the same room as mom and dad.
oKeep your refrigerator full of good food and drinks.
Make sure to have plenty of milk, juice, bread, fruit, cheese, eggs etc.
on hand.
With two extended families coming together in one house your kitchen will be open twenty-four hours a day.
By keeping the kitchen accessible your guests will be able to serve themselves whenever they get hungry.
oAt the family meal times such as large dinners, keep things simple by arranging a buffet.
Older kids can sit in front of the television and eat while grandparents and the younger kids can sit at the table.
Moms and dads can have some time away from the responsibilities of feeding their younger children.
This also gives the grandparents time to be with their grandkids.
Now that families are even more spread out around the country and the world, holiday travel and family time has become a challenge.
By coming up with a plan such as creating a 'Holiday Central' location, Christmas can remain the happy, loving time that it should be for families.