I like the idea of making our home the kind of place that easily morphs to a guest house for friends and relatives. Today as I anticipate the visit of an old and good friend, I'm thinking about how to make our home a place that is comfortable and welcoming to friends and family.
Recently we had the chance to stay with friends and family for a weekend. They were wonderfully hospitable and their house was inviting and welcoming. It was a pleasure to be there. I want our home to offer the same welcome and comfort.
For everyone this goal presents differing challenges depending on the size, shape and busyness of your home. For example, a small house filled to the brim with children may be more difficult to make welcoming to guests than a large home with few people. That said, as a child who lived in one of those busy, small, populated small houses, we often welcomed relatives who stayed a few days. To accommodate their stays, some of the children moved out of their bedrooms for a few days and slept elsewhere to make room for the guests Prior to the guests' arrival, we all took part in the big clean up in anticipation of their arrival.
What can we do to create this kind of space?
Sleeping
While our children's bedrooms are empty right now, the beds are not too comfortable. They require a bit of repair or replacement to make the bedrooms more welcoming and comfortable. The bedding is fine, but the window treatments could be updated to provide more privacy and comfort too.
Food
Our kitchen is a bit outdated, but simple. I want to make sure we have the easy foods that provide good snacks, drinks and healthy meals for our guests. That's part of our routine as it is so that doesn't take a lot of prep.
Bathrooms
Making sure that we have the toothpaste, shampoo, soap, towels in bathrooms that are clean for guests is always a must.
Relaxation
Simplifying spaces and providing a few games, books, electronic cords, and plugs will help to provide spaces to relax.
In general, it's all about simplifying the spaces we have to make comfortable, welcoming spaces for the family and friends that visit. Onward.