Be a Good Host & Houseguest

Be a relaxed and happy host.

A basket of towels for guests is a nice touch.  I keep ours on a vintage wooden cabinet near our main bathroom/shower. 

Many of our book offerings are written by local authors.

I like soaps that reflect the mood we are trying to provide.

Perfect for our house in the woods.  I found this at Home Goods.

Often we all have family and friends joining us for either a short or extended stay year round. But naturally summer provides the best weather for entertaining.  Swimming, barbecuing, yard games, boating, fishing.....summer has it all!
As a homeowner of a modest yet comfortable second home with lake and beach rights, we enjoy hosting our children, grandchildren and friends to swim, boat, barbecue, make s'mores over our fire pit and always a competitive game night.

~Hosting Tips~

My goal is to provide a relaxed and stress free get away.  Making lists days prior to our arrival are key.  By the time we arrive, I have a plan of each days meals and what grocery items are needed.  With so many stores and websites offering on line ordering and home delivery of grocery items, I suggest taking full advantage of this as a big time saver.  I find prices are competitive and delivery fees are minimal.  

I keep baskets of fresh hand towels and wash cloths in a pretty basket to use, making it easy for guests to find.

I have a book shelf with current and classic books for guests to grab and take to the hammocks to read.  Encourage everyone to bring their favorites to add to the collection to share.  

Provide beach towels, sunscreens and bug spray for our guests, along with full amenities in our bathrooms, tubs and showers.

Do as much in advance as you can so you can relax and enjoy your family time.  Sometimes I cook days in advance and freeze for future use.  Sloppy joes, chili, barbecued pulled pork, italian sausage are all easy to freeze, thaw and heat, as well as homemade pancakes, waffles and bacon.  I can't tell you how much time I have saved by doing this.  

~Guest Tips~

Offer to bring snacks or make a meal. Let your host know in advance what you will be bringing so he or she can plan accordingly. Fresh fruit or vegetables are always welcome.  

Clean up after yourselves to help minimize the work for your host so they can enjoy your time together too.

Bottled waters are always appreciated in our home.  We go through a lot of water!  Ice Mountain must notice a spike in their sales in summer from our family alone...haha.

Our family has recently contributed a flat grill iron to put over a fire pit for grilling steaks, burgers, hot dogs and chicken, an extra garage door opener and a plug in mosquito omitter for the patio.  Great additions and so appreciated. 

What are your tips to help make guests comfortable in your home?