At this time of year as we take our summer vacations many of us will be staying as guests with family and friends. There's an old saying...houseguests are like fish...after three days they start to stink. I asked Philip Galanes of The New York Times how WE can avoid being bad guests.

Philip Galanes, Columnist The New York Times 
"Well my dad used to say the way to be the best houseguest is to stay home. But I actually think he was taking it too far, and I think if you jump into the family or the household as much as you can, and really show you're an enthusiastic participant in what's going on, I think you can make yourself pretty much a valuable asset. If people are cooking, chop an onion. If they are going to grocery shop, offer to kick in some money."

katie: So really be a participant, don't just say "is there anything I can do," do it right? if they just jump in there are do the dishes you're secretly really grateful.

Phillip: not even secretly-yea! That's a good one!

So pitch in and help out your host. Philip also said a handwritten note or something that can be shared like wine or fruit is the perfect way to say "thank you" at the end of your stay. Before I overstay MY welcome I'll say goodbye for now. See you next week...and be sure to catch the debut of my new show "Katie" on September 10th.

Courtesy: Katie