Red Hot Mamas In Charge of Change.
By: Red Hot Mamas
Published: May 26, 2010
Written by Menopause Minute® Editors
Fish and visitors smell after three days, the old adage goes. Yet the experience of hosting guests for an extended time over the holidays need not leave a bad odor as the adage claims…if you are prepared to cope.
For many of us, it’s a pleasure hosting guests in our home. By inviting family and friends to stay with you during the holidays, you are opening up your heart to them. In my case, when my company arrives, it’s not unusual to hear me say "make yourself at home, my house is your house". And, I truly mean it. However, I must admit after several days, it’s hard for me to find balance in my life. My routine changes and I suddenly develop ambivalence, as my “business as usual day” gets interrupted and I begin to feel tired and a bit out of sorts. However, I’ve learned throughout the years to become more relaxed with my visitors. And, that means not being the perfect hostess 24/7. It makes me far too tired.
Here are some words of wisdom for you in preparing your home for visitors. No need to view guests with reluctance – they don’t have to be a burden; they can truly be a blessing if you utilize some of these tips.
- Be organized! Stock up on food/beverages and prepare in advance so you can enjoy your company.
- Before they arrive, make sure you have a clear explanation from them as to what they would like to do and provide them with sightseeing brochures, a calendar of events, and things like that.
- Give your guests freedom and encourage them to go out on their own. Offer the use of your car and/or if they want to take public transportation, let them do so. This allows free time for all parties involved.
- Make sure your visitors know where they can locate things in your household, without calling upon you. This will make them feel at home and you are not on call 24/7.
- If you have any house rules that your family must abide by, share those with your guests. Some popular house rules may include no smoking, not using too much hot water when showering, making your own breakfast, helping with dishes, etc.
- Lastly, don’t feel like you need to be on call 24/7. It will only make you feel like a servant.
In conclusion, guests can be a joy during the holidays. They become a burden when you become overworked and tired. So, be kind to yourself, prepare for their arrival and the visit should be enjoyable. After all, one of life’s pleasures is being surrounded by those people you hold near and dear to your heart!
