House Guest Etiquette

Many years ago, several of my family members decided to take a road trip to visit relatives in Odessa, Texas. These Texans always roll out the red carpet for us and this trip was no exception. With the struggles many have had with the economy, I have heard of several families visiting relatives and making it their summer vacation just as we did several years ago.  For those of you who will be house guests this summer, here are a few things to think about when staying at someone else's home. 

1. Keep in mind that this is not a hotel.  Bring your own toiletries. 
2. Not everyone loves your pet like you do.  Don't even ask if you can bring Spot.  Find a nice kennel for him. 
3. Don't show up unannounced. If you are going to be earlier or later than your scheduled arrival time,  phone ahead.  Your hosts could be out shopping or cleaning.  
4. This is not the time to take a long hot shower.  Be considerate and keep showers short, turn off lights when you leave the room, turn off television and other electronics.
5. Depending on how long you are staying, bring a gift.  The longer the stay, the more personal the present.  You could always send something after you return home.
6. Treat your hosts to dinner.  Either take them out or offer to purchase the groceries and cook the meal in the home.  When my family went to visit our relatives in Texas, I cooked a “Derby” meal for my cousins.  Another night they treated us to their version of Tortilla Soup.  To this day, I am asked for the soup recipe every time I serve it at a dinner party.
7. Pick up after yourself.  It would be nice for you to help sweep floors, wash dishes, make your bed every morning, etc.
8. Be “financially sensitive.”  Don’t expect the host to pay for all dinners, movies, or any expenses on an outing. 
9. Pack everything you will need, don’t borrow things. 
10. Keep the hosts informed of your daily plans.  If you won’t be back for dinner, tell them in advance.
11. When getting ready to head back home, ask the hosts if you should strip the bed or leave it unmade.  If you strip the bed, fold the sheets and blankets and place them at the foot of the bed.
12. Don’t forget to invite your hosts to stay at your home in the future.  

My family has not only stayed with the Texans, but with my aunt and uncle in California, a friend in Walnut Creek, friends in Maryland, Mississippi, and New York.  Vacationing with family and friends is a wonderful way to reconnect, see the sights with the locals, save on hotel expenses, and share your vacation with others.  

Safe Travels, 

Chris

Bathing Suit Season is Here

There is so much to love about summer. Besides the obvious - longer days, no school, going to the beach or pool, and grilling outdoors - the possibilities are endless. Do you have your bathing suit selected? Ready or not - bathing suit season is here.

I have mixed feelings about some of the suits I've seen such as the "Trikini". This so called one piece covers less than my daughters bikini. The cut out style is very trendy and not recommended for the beach introvert.

Thanks to Michelle Obama the necktie is back - even in a one piece bathing suit. I've seen some that are so cute you could wear them with a skirt to a summer picnic.

Many of the one piece suits are belted at the waist and above the waist. Make sure you have a waist that should have attention drawn to it. Just because it's trendy doesn't mean you can wear it. Only wear a trend if it enhances your body type.

There are some very edgy looking high neck one piece suits. High neck and summer don't seem to fit in the same sentence.

Check out all the dramtic prints, adorable skirted suits, and one shoulder romantic looks.

Whatever you decide to wear this summer, make sure it fits properly, supports your coloring, you love it and feel good wearing it. Then go out and have some fun in the sun.

Joyfully,
Chris