Mimi prepares for spring break!

Mimi is the name my five grandchildren (ages 13 to 9 years) gave me. For Easter week all of my family will be together in Florida. This is a very special time for us and for everyone.

The secret to family overnight entertaining is to be prepared and focus on the fun. Try to keep it light, and by all means do not make any demands on anyone or anything.

In our house we hold the key to success by having a place to swim, a hot tub and a fishing dock. Oh, and please Lord, give me semi-good weather. The rest is downhill. You don't need to have all these elements, but it does help.

Think of the spring break as three separate goals - Food, Rest and Fun!

On the day they arrive, plan on grab and go food and wine for the adults! The kids are excited and they want to be with each other and swim constantly. The size of the pool doesn't matter - it can be anywhere from a blow up rubber tube to the oceanfront out your back door.

The parents want to collapse and thank the Lord that they are away.

The last day is wild. Give each room a container for them to put their laundry (sheets and towels) in and label the location of the bedroom on the container. After they leave, take the laundry to a "wash and fold" and treat yourself to others washing and folding the laundry as well as returning the laundry to the right room container.

Even if your spring break with family is not held in a warm weather location, the thought process for all climates is similar.

And my final tip – never parent, you are the grandparent!