So you have friends over and you're having a great time - too great a time. The hour is getting later and later, and you're tired. But everryone is having so much fun you hate to mess things up and ask them to leave. What do you do? Here are a few simple ways you can gently nudge people out the door.

1. Yawn. A simple yawn can trigger others to yawn, and someone may realize that they are tired too.

2. Start cleaning up. Putting away games and food will signal that the fun is winding to an end. Some people may take the hint.

3. If your kids are still up, send them to bed. But be careful - this might be taken by some that it's now "adult" time, and they'll stay another hour or two.

4. Begin bedtime preparations. Take your contacts out. Put on some slippers.

5. Check the weather outside. This one works best in winter in colder climates. Saying it looks like the snow's coming down harder can push people to go.

6. When all else fails, be honest, especially if you have a legitimate reason for being tired or going to bed. "Sorry to ruin your fun, but I got up at 5:30 this morning and really need some sleep" can work wonders.

Hope these tips help!