Surviving weekend guests. --- Try on these tips to help you deal.

Image source

Whether you're introverted or not, weekend guests can be a drag. They leave the lights on, they use a lot of toilet paper, they show up late for breakfast and expect to be waited on, some litter their things around the house, worst still; they get to touch your favourite stuff.

It could get a bit annoying though, especially if the visit were a surprised one. But of course it isn't as if you don't love them or enjoy their company at times, for an introvert, you value your 'alone time', and having someone over, who's constantly asking what's this and that all weekend could be hard to deal with.

As a clever host/hostess who graciously but firmly takes charge of your home, here's a few things you could do to cope with them.

Tip 1: Be a benevolent dictator.

Image source
As the owner of your house, you have the right not to be put upon. If someone is cadging an invitation when you'd rather be alone, it's okay to suggest another time. Be sure they're visiting when you're most secure and comfortable, and keep a few cash handy. Learn to turn 'em down if it's not okay with you, after all, it's your house, remember?

Tip 2: Greet 'em at the door and pick their stuff.

Image source

If they're visiting from outta town, chances are that they'll be very tired, and could litter their stuff on the couch and around the house upon entering. You could meet them at the door and say; 'let me put your things in your room for you', and also you should recommend a bottle of water and a bath to freshen up. Be sure you have given much thought to this, put everything they'd need in their room.

Tip 3: Give 'em a tour around the house

Image source
Especially if you're staying in a very big place. they dont have to wake up wondering which way leads to the dining room. A simple tour around the house would help them familiarize themselves and settle right in, as well as being aware of places that are outta bound, even for them.
You could also give instructions as to how the dry-cleaning machine and the coffee machine works too, so they can do it themselves when you're away.

Tip 4: Involve guests in a little bit of work.

Image source

If you're without servants, you might wanna indulge your guests in a little bit of chores too. You'll resent them if they're having fun alone, and you're stuck with work. Simply tell them what is expected of them, or what you need them to help you with. For example, you could ask them to help you pack the picnic basket, bring in firewood, etc. Also, if they have special diets you're not familiar with, you can ask them to come with the necessary ingredients required, and as well watch them prepare it. Could be fun. However, be sensitive enough not to stress them though, they're guests, and should have a good time above all.

Tip 5: Don't let the kitchen win!

Image source

For most hostesses, they tend to worry too much about what the guests would eat, so much that they spend too much time in the kitchen. Well, don't let food preparation become a chore. Plan ahead of time to have options to choose from if you decide to spend the afternoon on the beach instead of the kitchen. Have a dish you can pull outta the freezer, or a chicken or fish that will cook in the oven and yield leftovers for other meals as well. You can also order food from meals on wheels services, or have your local restaurant bring it over. whatever works for you.

Tip 6: Encourage independence.

Image source

You could give your guests a better feeling of settling down by providing some of the things they would need on a daily basis, or if they ever wanted to step outside. You could supply maps, a bicycle, some guide books, extra keys, newspapers and magazines, and an alarm clocks to help them organize their day without feeling the need to disturb you about it. Also, you could as well set up a way to communicate changes in schedules and information.

In all, be sure you have a fun time with your guests. Enjoy the weekend!

Happy new week buddies!

References:

Gardenista.com
_{The book of secrets, Copyright 1986 - 1989. Boardroom inc.}