I am curious to know if any of you are currently living with extended family. If so, how are you managing? Do you enjoy it? Does it simplify life or cause added stress?

My parents are getting older, and down the road a bit I foresee they will be living with me and my family, which would simplify life in many ways. However, it would be an adjustment for all of us. Also, it seems like hardly anyone does this anymore.

Any thoughts?

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I don't believe in miracles; I depend on them

Nope. We have lived with my inlaws in the past (quite a few years and kids ago) It worked out well, because my Inlaws are great people. But they will never move in with us. Not that I don't want them to I love them. My grown dd sort of lives with us and that is definitely a source of stress.

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~Happiness is a large family~

Not at the moment but I'd love to see that happen sometime in the future! Both my own parents and my inlaws scoff at the idea but I think it would be great. My grandfather lived with us for five years after my grandmother died and it was fantastic. I would love my kids to know a grandparent that way. We just bought a bigger house with enough room for everyone should the need arise! I'm excited about that!

Not at the moment, but i love the idea. Every other culture embraces their elders. Their is soo much to learn. I would look at it as a blessing ( even though I know parents can be challenging!)

That is wonderful about your grandfather- that is what I am hoping will be the case at my house. Our society has really lost the whole "living together" dimension as far as extended families. And isn't that ironic, since our houses are so much bigger?

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I don't believe in miracles; I depend on them

My mother lives with us and it causes more stress in our life. She is a demanding, passive agressive, difficult, woman and has lived with us for about 5 years. She also does nothing around the house. Thank the lord she has finally found her own place and is in the process of moving out.

That being said, my dd has a wonderful relationship with her and I wouldn't trade that for the world. The ironic thing is I would love to have extended family live with us...if they are respectful and helpful. I am sorry...but after 5 years you are no longer a "house guest" and should pull your weight around the house. For heavens sake, at least keep your own room and bathroom clean. But I digress...

If something happened to any of my family or inlaws I would be glad to have any of them stay indefinitely in an instant. Yes...even my mother.

I did take care of my parents and my grandmother. However, they have passed away. Only my husband's mother is still alive and she will not move in with us. She doesn't want to and since she smoke like a chimney, I'm okay with that.

It was very stressful to be primary caregiver to my ailing family. I lost a great deal of my freedom and I'm quite the homebody!

My 2-cents is being willing to have your extended family live with you is a wonderful offer. It is also a great experience. While those times were stressful, I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. It is a privilege to be at someone's birth and it is a privilege to be with someone during their last days. Both moments are magical times. However, don't be surprised if your parents have other plans! It is stressful for a parent to give up their freedoms and live with their children, too.

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"Poor people work for their money. Rich people make their money work for them."