Even with my two little ones and DH, I sometimes struggle to keep up. But...I think the difference between your recent situation and a family with lots of kids is that you can put those kids to work helping you with housework. Slave labor, and all that. ;)

Breezy, exactly! These guys are "guests" , so i can't assign chores! Plus, they are all single, so a home cooked meal is a rarity. One of them cooks, but the others(including DH) do NOT. At least they appreciate my cooking!

Nancy

what, you think single guys can afford to dine out every day? If not, its DIY home-cooked meals.

Hun,
Single men are the easiest to put to work!!!
Even if it's stirring something, chopping, setting a table, or washing a pot. Particularly the one who does cook. Flattery will get you everywhere.

Give them a beer (or pop) for one hand, ask them questions where they can answer looking good, and go to work.

You're just not doing it right.

I got the impression these single men were building while she was cooking and cleaning.

I hope your MIL is some help to you. I remember when we were building a house, and camping on the land at the time. I was 25 years younger then and it was just like you described. Get up at dawn to cook a big, hearty breakfast, and after getting those dishes washed, it was time to start cooking lunch, and then dinner.

We were too far out to go get even a pizza, and that just isn't filling food for men who are sweating out in the sun framing, roofing, and all that.

I feel for you, and trust me, it will end and be a pleasant memory one day - for both you and these guys.