be our guest!

What is it we are delighted by when having guests? Is it endemic in humanness to offer hospitality? We always feel like we have won top honors if our guests report a comfortable stay. The ideal, of course, is to maintain a dedicated room or suite set up in perfect welcoming stasis replete with all the accoutrements of a luxe hotel and/or spa. An "away" space offering privacy as well as a cozy retreat.

Having that much space for visitors only is super privileged. Most of us must quickly convert a regular room into guest quarters, tossing kids toys, craft supplies, Zoom room accessories will-ay nill-ay into blanket chests, closet floors, and any other available storage space so as to leave room for the thoughtful touches that make our special callers feel at home. Here are some suggestions to keep on hand as a considerate host.

Hot water, tea selection including decaf, Keurig with coffee pods, sugar, shelf-stable half & half, cups, spoons, magazines, puzzle books, current magazines.

Tissues, scented candle with matches, fruit bowl, snacks, soap, lotion, shampoo, spare toothbrush in package, HBO, Netflix, reading chair with multiple charging locations for both guests.

Plumpy covers and fluffy towels!

Things you don’t see but are good to have:

working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors - with extra batteries

step ladder in closet

band-aids in drawer

mini sewing kit, safety pins

working flashlight

emergency phone charger

extra USB cord

card with house WiFi password

working hair dryer

clear nail polish

nail polish remover

new emery boards

shoe polish cloth

Keep clean linens (sheets, blankets, hypoallergenic pillow covers, pillow cases, fluffy towels sets) in sealed bins for each bed to be converted to guest accommodations under that bed. Store linens etc with crisply scented lavender in sachets or soaps to keep stored items fresh.

For more ideas and advice, check out our Be Our Guest board on Pinterest.