Do you have an opportunity to welcome guests into your home? Summer is a great time to get together with family and friends. With some preparation ahead of time, you can enjoy your guests and not stress about your home.
Here are some ways that I try to do this well!
*Remember that a house is made to be lived in and full of people. It's not a museum to be admired.
1. Think about the basics - clean bathrooms, clean sheets, welcoming places to hang out
It really doesn't take much time to clean a bathroom. I move as quickly as possible and make sure the important areas are clean (toilet, sinks, tub). Make sure there is plenty of toilet paper, bottles of shampoo, soap, towels, etc.
A fresh bed really helps your guests to rest well at your house. I have extra pillows for anyone who needs them!
Make sure the living areas are cleared so that everyone can sit and visit comfortably. We move a few chairs when needed to have maximum space to chat. It's all about being together and sharing our lives. If everyone has a place to relax, the conversation happens naturally!
*Don't hesitate to cook for people you love. Kitchens are made to be messed up and then cleaned up!
2. Food!
It's your preference how much you want to cook vs. eating out. I know families who order everything out because they don't want the fuss. They love the service and get to enjoy each other's company all the more!
We do a lot of cooking because it's Tony's thing. He shows his love by feeding people and sharing his gift for planning and cooking meals.
I tried to think ahead for basic snacks, drinks, and staples. Tony went food shopping as needed for meal preparations.
Either way, enjoy your guests and savor all the moments around your table. Don't forget some photos to remember the laughs!
We just had a houseful of relatives here and it was wonderful. Tony did most of the cooking. I tried to keep the dishwasher going and the fridge organized so everyone could find what they wanted.
*Remember to relax and enjoy your guests! The people God puts in our lives are gifts to be savored.
3. When your guests have arrived, don't stress about anything. Just enjoy them and let the moments happen. No one will care if you forgot something or if the food isn't perfect. That's life. Accept offers of help with simple chores. Take time to talk and laugh. And thank your guests for coming to visit!!
We had so many beautiful conversations and moments with our family members. I am truly thankful that they took the time and effort to come to visit. Those are memories that we will always have. I hope that everyone was comfortable and knew that they were wanted in our home.😃
