I don't think that meditation involves nullifying feelings, at least I hope it doesn't. Feelings are what make us and keep us alive, it seems to me. I find that meditation helps me to accept my feelings, and still maintain a degree of detachment. I think that the practice of meditation helps develop an attitude of amused curiousity about my feelings and emotions. Sort of like, 'Well! Wouldja look at that! Huh!'
As for visiting your friend and her tribe, maybe just openly acknowledging something like, 'OMG your boys! They sure must be a handful at times! So much energy! Why don't we make a time for just us so we can really enjoy each others' company without any distractions? I bet you would like that too. Thursday good for you?'. Something like that could work?