Has your home been selected to be the prime gathering sport for friends and family during this years holidays? While this is a great role to have during the holidays it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. Because, after all, even the most cheerful host can turn grinch-like.
Here are a few tips we’ve compiled, with some input from our Facebook fans, to make hosting a little less stressful.
1. Turn ‘em loose in town
Provide your guests with a list of local area attractions, maps, and ideas to get your guests out of the house for a few hours. This clears the space for you to clean and prepare meals and it also gives everyone a change a scenery each day as well as creating memories.
2. Food at the ready
Just because you’re the host doesn’t mean you are tied to the kitchen 24 hours a day and on duty as a short-order cook. Instead, pick up items for sandwiches, or other easily assembled snacks and ask guests to fix their own meals when they are hungry. Have plenty of snacks and fruit around so they can just pick it up and go!
3. Make them feel at home
Even if your home is small, carve out a space for them to relax. Set up a basket with books, magazines and other activities. Put out extra towels, soap and other little toiletries your guests may need.
4. Put them to work
Chances are, your guests will insist on helping — either in the kitchen or elsewhere, so take them up on the offer! Give them tasks such as dicing vegetables, washing dishes, or running to the store for provisions.
5. Games, movies, and cards
Many of our Facebook guests suggested having a puzzle, board games or cards out with plenty of snacks as great evening activities. Show them how to connect to the Internet, or watch a movie.
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