I batch-write and schedule my blog posts at least a month in advance of when they’ll appear. It’s ironic that this is the post I had scheduled for a week when we would all be practicing social distancing, cancelling any plans we may have had for having people over. I thought about saving this one for a time when this is all over, but I need it today. I need the reminder that this will all be over and we will enjoy being with each other again. Until then, create space for beauty.
I loved having company when I was a kid. We didn’t have people over very often, usually only grandparents, but when we did, the anticipation was half the fun.
I could tell pretty early on that this wasn’t the case for my mom. In adulthood, I understood why. Parents or in-laws might judge the house, the meals, the children’s behavior. Having friends over means extra work, cooking beforehand and cleaning up afterward. Later, there’s the aftermath in the kids’ rooms.
I understand why having people over might be stressful, but I still love it. Over the years, I’ve implemented some sanity saving tricks for making it more fun and less stress.
1. Hide the toys. Before we have friends over, I make my kids clean their rooms. Then I carry most of their toys to a closet or to my room for safe keeping. Carry them out, cover them with a blanket, lock them away, whatever it takes. I consider the ages and preferences of the kids coming over and only leave out a few things I’m certain they’ll enjoy. Then, even if they drag everything out, there’s still not much that needs to be cleaned up in the end.
2. Get ready for bedtime, especially if guests might stay late. I clean up my room, even though my door will likely stay closed. I give myself turn-down service, fill my water glass, lay out my book, and turn on the lamp. At the end of the night, I know my cozy space will be ready to welcome me into quiet rest.
3. Don’t wait until . . . Maybe you think your house isn’t big enough, your dishes don’t match, or you’re not a great cook. I promise none of that matters. I started having an Easter potluck when our dining room table was in the living room, because that’s the only room where it fit. I still don’t have enough matching dishes for parties larger than 7. I’ve gotten better at cooking for large groups because I’ve created lots of opportunities to practice. So, go for it! The memories and relationships will be worth it!
Do you enjoy having people over? What tips would you add?