Over the Hill and through the Woods to
My husband is famous for saying, "Let's drop by Cecil and Helen's house . . . see if they're home."
We know our friends and their schedules well enough that we're pretty safe when we make an unexpected house call. I've learned to appreciate drop-in company most of the time, and Christmas usually means visitors will be in and out more over the holidays. Here's some tips I learned about keeping a house company ready. . .or making folk feel welcome even when the house is a mess.
I heard this tip years ago, and I've found it to be a good one. Keep your mirrors and appliances shiny, and the gleam will catch your visitor's attention, making a good first impression. and it will make you feel better, too. Take a spray bottle of Windex, a roll of paper towels or some lint free rags and only do the household mirrors, wipe down TV screen, (whatever is recommended for yours), the fridge, front of microwave, etc., even washer and dryer if company will see them. Go do that now. There. Do you feel better about your housekeeping?
I like to take a few minutes each day to tidy rooms. Round up any stray items and return them to their places. Also, during the holidays set a clear cookie jar filled with home baked goodies in a prominent place. Place something cheerful by the door guests enter--a plant, a heartwarming slogan, or a colorful welcome mat. When someone knocks or that doorbell rings, smile and greet any guests who happen to phone ahead or simply drop by.
What if your house looks like it has just been burglarized and unexpected people are at your door? Clothing, newspapers, and shoes clutter your sitting area. Dust has settled on the end tables like the down on a thistle. Be gracious. Say as little about your mess as possible. You might make your guests feel bad for dropping in. Err on the side of gracious hospitality and put your all-I-want-for-Christmas-is-a-neat-house ego on hold. Choose to be a blessing to all who seek your company. What a compliment. They wanted to come see YOU!
Enjoy the merriment this week as we move into the count down--10 days until Christmas ....Cathy Messecar
We know our friends and their schedules well enough that we're pretty safe when we make an unexpected house call. I've learned to appreciate drop-in company most of the time, and Christmas usually means visitors will be in and out more over the holidays. Here's some tips I learned about keeping a house company ready. . .or making folk feel welcome even when the house is a mess.
I heard this tip years ago, and I've found it to be a good one. Keep your mirrors and appliances shiny, and the gleam will catch your visitor's attention, making a good first impression. and it will make you feel better, too. Take a spray bottle of Windex, a roll of paper towels or some lint free rags and only do the household mirrors, wipe down TV screen, (whatever is recommended for yours), the fridge, front of microwave, etc., even washer and dryer if company will see them. Go do that now. There. Do you feel better about your housekeeping?
I like to take a few minutes each day to tidy rooms. Round up any stray items and return them to their places. Also, during the holidays set a clear cookie jar filled with home baked goodies in a prominent place. Place something cheerful by the door guests enter--a plant, a heartwarming slogan, or a colorful welcome mat. When someone knocks or that doorbell rings, smile and greet any guests who happen to phone ahead or simply drop by.
What if your house looks like it has just been burglarized and unexpected people are at your door? Clothing, newspapers, and shoes clutter your sitting area. Dust has settled on the end tables like the down on a thistle. Be gracious. Say as little about your mess as possible. You might make your guests feel bad for dropping in. Err on the side of gracious hospitality and put your all-I-want-for-Christmas-is-a-neat-house ego on hold. Choose to be a blessing to all who seek your company. What a compliment. They wanted to come see YOU!
Enjoy the merriment this week as we move into the count down--10 days until Christmas ....Cathy Messecar
4 comments:
Cathy, I like your practical tips for keeping our homes ready for surprise visitors this Christmas season.
This sounds like a good routine to keep up all year.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)
Thanks, Terra and Shelia. If I'm doing a cluttery project such as wrapping gifts, I try to keep that barriaded in one room, so the entry hall and living area are uncluttered. The first area your guests see--that's what they'll remember. It's good to walk in your front door and take notice of what your guests see first when they enter. Merry Christmas, girls.
Hi Terra - thanks for visiting .. I would prefer to keep one place for 'work' .. and generally keep the rest of the flat/house clean and organised ... lots going on and lots of visitors ..
Have a happy time .. Hilary
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