Rules for visiting...

[lwuertz]

I saw a thread about this somewhere on these boards awhile ago.

I was thinking about putting together a list and sending it out to family members. Any suggestions would be helpful, especially from you mamas that have been there done that. Suggestions on wording so I don't sound *witchy* would be helpful too.

Here's what I'm thinking so far:

1. No cameras. We have a digital camera we will be using to document Jillian's arrival and first days. If you would like photos we'd be happy to e-mail them to you. We don't want the first few days to turn into a paparazzi photo fest.

2. Wash your hands upon arrival.

3. If you have even a hint of a cold or some other contagious ailment please stay away until you are feeling better.

4. My midwife wants me to "stay down" for at least a week following the birth, so I will not be able to play hostess as usual. Feel free to help yourself to food/drinks in our fridge and pantry, but please also help us stay on top of our chores by cleaning up after yourself.

5. Please call before coming over so we can be prepared for your arrival and let you know the best time to visit.


????

[yummama]

I have to say I love rule #1--no cameras but your own. I have been dreading my mother in law with her horribly outdated digital camera and terrible photography skills for months. Seriously, I want to have some control over the images of me and babe that get around to people. Your other rules seem obvious to me, by definitely worth stating. I have a professor who thinks I am going to be back in class the day after I give birth--which proves that there are people out there who would expect you to be your usual self and play hostess, etc. right afterwards.

[boobyfeeder]

That list sounds great, except I would put #5 first, just so people realize how important it is. Bump the camera one down to 5th.

[Montse]

Originally Posted by boobyfeeder

That list sounds great, except I would put #5 first, just so people realize how important it is. Bump the camera one down to 5th.

I agree with ^ and I would suggest removing the last line about the paparrazi fest. I'd put a positive spin on it instead such as, "thank you for wanting to help take pictures but we have it covered. Feel free to bring your camera some other time."

[LegalScrapper]

My issue with cameras is people who think it is okay to post pictures of MY family on their websites or email them to people. So I'd add that.

Also - I read in a magazine a tip about handwashing. It said to put older siblings (forget if you have other children) in charge of that. Kids can be more direct without being rude. Plus they get to be helpful. So my 4 1/2 year old knows her "job" is to tell people to wash their hands and use sanitizer. She think she is hot stuff to squirt the sanitizer and direct them to the bathroom sink.

[amitymama]

Originally Posted by Montse

I agree with ^ and I would suggest removing the last line about the paparrazi fest. I'd put a positive spin on it instead such as, "thank you for wanting to help take pictures but we have it covered. Feel free to bring your camera some other time."

:

I think some people might find the paparazzi line a tad abrasive so I'd leave it out. Otherwise it's a great list!