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I visit my sister a few times a year. She has a very peaceful home, and mine, well, is quite chaotic. My sister and I are more than just siblings were best friends and we have been since we were little. She always welcomes me into her home and I enjoy the visit very much. But, because, I would like to always be welcome in her home, I remember these things:

1. No matter how close you are or what a perfect guest you are, just your presence

disrupts the family's routine. So keep your visits short. Three days has proven
to be the best for my sister and I. I get the break I need. We get to visit and
have a good time. I leave way before I have time to wear out my welcome.

2. Never arrive without warning. Just because your host lives in Las Vegas and
you happen to be vactioning there; it doesn't mean that it is a good time
to visit. People need time to prepare for your visit. I know that we always
thoroughly clean our house before we have guests. We do all those special things
for company that we might put off when it's just us. Besides, your friend or
relative may have plans or may be in the middle of some highly personal
business of their own. Your visit will be more than just disruptive; it will be
unwelcome and so will you.

3. Your friend's or relative's home is not a hotel. Your host is not your maid or
bell hop. Clean up after your self. Make your bed. Make sure all of your
clothes are put up neatly. Rinse off your plates. Offer to help with the cooking
or other chores. Keep your luggage out of the way. Follow house rules (i.e If
there's no smoking in the house, take it outside. Don't leave your butts
laying around.) Just because they've told you to help yourself to anything
you want in the refrigerator doesn't mean you should eat them out of house and
home.

4. Offer to take your host out to dinner or a movie. It shows your appreciation
for their kindness.

5. Remember that they shouldn't have to be "on" all time. What I mean is that they
shouldn't have to worry about entertaining you 24/7. Let them know that it is
OK to do the things that they normally do.

6. When it's time to go, double check and make sure everything is left in the same
condition that it was when you arrived. Take another look around to make
sure you have packed everything that you have brought.

7. Be sure and thank your hosts. Let them know that you would like to return
the favor and invite them to stay with you sometime.

7. I always try to offer my sister money or a gift for her trouble. She always
refuses but I'm sure she appreciates the offer.

These tips have insured that I am always a welcome visitor in my sister's home

Learn more about this author, Cynthia Harlan.
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