When the "kids" come home for the holidays

PurplePlum
Fri, 10 Jan 2025 19:43:45 +0000

I also do what I can to make it attractive and easy for my kids to come home for holidays or really for anytime. I make sure that I have a full set of my kids’ preferred toiletries, including a full set of any the kids’ preferred make-up/cosmetics, duplicate of their medications, etc., in their bathrooms here at home at all times. I also make sure that they have extra clothing that they keep in my house permanently, including outerwear like rain coats, etc., so they do not need to pack really anything other than school books and electronics. My kids each live a longish plane ride away.

For one of my kids especially, all she does is grab a small backpack and takes her electronics and her purse and she is good to go. No clothing or make up/perfume/toiletries needed. So, for her it is so easy. She does not like to fly and not having to think about what to pack saves her time and stress. Plus she does not have to worry about checking her luggage or carrying it around the airport.

For my kid with a pet that travels with her on the plane, I make sure I have a duplicate set of toys, bedding, food, food bowls, etc. at my house so DD does not have to pack anything for her pet or worry about having to buy stuff once she gets here.

I also stock the fridge and pantry with favorite snacks and such, plus cook favorite meals, etc.

I keep their rooms neat and clean, sheets laundered, so when they arrive, they can relax.

It works out well in that my kids do try and stay here for a long time when they visit and seem to enjoy coming here. I do not mind doing all of this as in some way it helps me cope with them being away, by me knowing that all is ready for them here at a moment’s notice when they come to visit.

I have always lived a plane ride away from my extended family and as a young adult, was always the one flying or driving home for the the holidays. So, I know how nice it is to have stuff at the ready at one’s destination. I never had that luxury and always had to pack my stuff.

I recall how tough it was when the kids were small and we had to lug so much kid stuff on the plane like playpens and such. It was a pain and a lot to manage. I swore to myself that when and if my kids had kids, that I would have crib/playpen, toys, clothes, etc. for their kids here at my house to make it easy for them to travel. No grandkids yet, but I plan to be good on my word and provide conveniences for them, should I have grandchildren.

As I type this I realize it may sound a bit excessive, but I really like doing it and I have the space to do it, since their bedrooms are kept intact. And the kids tell me how much they appreciate it. And they do visit me as much as possible!