I'm a relatively new (2.5 yrs) MD-11 F/O at FDX and mostly fly international. I work about half the month. I'm happily married to my wife (just one) and have a couple of kids. I know many of you are in the same situation and have to deal with trip recovery time (jet lag), catching up with the family situation, and easing your way back into the lives of your spouse and kids without causing too much distress to them. I find it takes me about five days if I've been gone on a long trip (5-14 days).

For those of you who have been doing this a long time and have successfully kept your family happy, what are some techniques, rituals, habits, priorities, etc. that have worked for you?