I have a problem...

[Freedom]

A 2.5 months house guest who WANTS to help?! THAT is amazing!

I like Alysser's suggestion, saying "We like things done a particular way . . . . " Do any of you have allergies, asthma? What about Pinot? Blame it on that if you like, that it is medically NECESSARY.

Or, get her doing other things like laundry, vacuuming, and such.

[Asiel]

I think I would go along with Freedom -- steer your friend in another direction , like vacuuming, dusting, doing the bed linens and towels. I think it's easier than having to tell her straight out you don't want her help in the kitchen.. I don't think I could do it myself, I would be so afraid of offending and maybe losing a friend of 30 yrs.
Maybe she could even do some errands, whatever she does, impress on her what a help it is to you.

[Karen]

Just tell her plainly, "We have certain standards for health reasons. If you want, I can teach you more sanitary food preparation, and it'll serve you well for the rest of your life! Please don't take this the wrong way, I'm just guessing no one ever taught you any different, so here's your chance to learn, okay? Feel free to ask all the questions you want, and if I do something you don't understand, I'll be glad to explain it."

You can mention that, to give an excuse, at your age you need to be careful about things, as your immune system is not as strong as hers.

[kitten645]

I would just point her in a different direction and just say "I'm really picky about my food and I'd prefer to do this myself. Can you ...do laundry, buy groceries, clean the bathroom, etc" Maybe a list of chores for everyone? Boundries are always good.

[Taz_Zoee]

I would just point her in a different direction and just say "I'm really picky about my food and I'd prefer to do this myself. Can you ...do laundry, buy groceries, clean the bathroom, etc" Maybe a list of chores for everyone? Boundries are always good.

I like this approach. Or say you have a house rule that guests do not help in the kitchen. But she can help in other areas of the house.

[caseysmom]

Just say you love to cook but hating doing...well other things...you may want to mention that the first thing you do when going into the kitchen is wash your hands...

[Husky_mom]

the picky/allergy approach is what I´d do.. and well.. in reality.. I´m very picky..even when my mom cooks :P ..I got used to my own way and now back here sometimes I´d rather eat something else (not higyene related..lol.. more like pieces cut too big or too small.. haha)