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when she's a houseguest, girlawhirl follows these simple rules to make sure she gets a return invitation May 21, 2008
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Girlawhirl's not sure what she looks forward to more, visiting a friend on a lazy summer weekend, or acting as hostess when her pals come to town. Each role, guest or host, has its own peculiarities and requirements, and over the years she thinks she's figured them out. Being the guest feels like the easy way to go, very little in the way of planning, no need to clean before the weekend arrives and thankfully, no laundry afterwards. But from Girlawhirl's experience there are still a few rules a guest must follow if they want the opportunity for a return engagement… Girlawhirl never arrives empty handed, and if there are kiddies in the household she's sure to include them as well with either something small for each one of them or a shared treat: if sweets are frowned upon, a game they can all play together is a good choice.
Even if Saturday night's swanky dinner out is going to be Girlawhirl's treat, she still brings something small for her hostess, like a scented candle or gorgeous bunch of flowers.
Girlawhirl's always ready and willing to take on some household duties. If there are little ones in the house, she'll keep them entertained on Saturday morning and maybe even prepare breakfast for the appreciative parents to enjoy after their extra two hours of sleep. An alternative is to offer to handle meal prep one night.
When appropriate, Girlawhirl offers to plan something, or take care of the tickets if the weekend is about a show, fair or other event they'll be attending. Even if she's not driving, she'll print out directions if necessary and do whatever “scouting” is needed.
And, of course, a thank you note or call on Monday follows.
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She's also sure to bring along a book or a couple of magazines she needs to catch up on. When visiting a family, there are moments when routine – like bath time – eclipses all. This is when she can graciously excuse herself to the den or her room.
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