@Tom57 : Hey Tom, I installed a transfer switch next to the breaker box to power the circuits we needed the most, i.e. fridge, some lights, some ac plugs for an a/c.
Something like this one:
www.amazon.com/dp/B0 00HS2L3O/ref=asc_df_ B000HS2L3O5409033/?t ag=hyprod-20&cr
I had a buddy come over for dinner and some beer and he connected the switch to the circuit box for me since he was an electrician.
I ran the cord through the attic to the covered patio where I can connect the generator fairly easily w/o getting drenched.
A whole house generator is the way to go but this setup is the next best thing for the economically minded.