Preparation For Guests
1. A few days before their arrival open the guest closet and dresser drawers to give them a good airing out. Chances are if they are just used for guests they might be "musty" smelling. After a proper airing either make or purchase sachets to give the areas a gentle, delicate scent.

2. While you are in the closet put a few extra blankets and pillows up on the top shelf. These should have just been laundered and have that wonderful clean, fresh scent. Your guests will appreciate it on a chilly night:)

3. Go through the guest closet and make sure you arrange it so there is ample room for your guests to hang clothes. Find a designated spot in the room where your guests will be able to store their suitcase. Instead of using those old metal dry cleaning hangers invest in a few padded hangers. Your guests will be most appreciative.

4. When you talk to your guests prior to their arrival check to see if there are any allergies you need to take mind of, such as food or animal.

5. The day before the arrival strip the bed and wash all the bedding. Your guests will be most appreciative and will have a wonderful night's sleep.

6. On the day of the arrival it is nice to have a "welcome" sign of some sort to let your guests see how excited you are about their arrival. This can be done in many ways such as a homemade banner done by your children , a welcome on a wreath, etc. Get the children involved so they can share in the excitement of your guests visit.

7. An hour before they come bake some delicious cookies so that when they come in they are greeted with a wonderful aroma. It will make them so happy to know that you took the time to bake something in their honor!

8. Have soft music playing in the background, NOT a blaring T.V.!

9. Light a delicately scented candle and place in their guest room.

10. Place a beautiful bouquet of flowers on the dresser.

11. When they are ready to unpack show them their room and then you can explain what your routine is in the morning, etc..

12. Have a coffee pot either in the room or their powder room. Provide them with nice mugs and some good tea and coffee selections.

13. Have a basket that you have place bottled water and a snack such as crackers, chips, etc. Your guests might get the "munchies" at night!

14. Have interesting reading materials along with a good reading light. You also need an alarm clock, tissues, etc.

15. Have a stocked "amenities" basket filled with items from the dollar store such as toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, and maybe some "luxury" amenities as well!

16. Provide your guests with great towels. Don't skimp on this one!! Get the big thick cotton towels, they will love you for it. How about some fuzzy slippers, robe, etc...??

17. Provide a warm, cozy throw that they can use if they decide to take a "cat" nap!

18. Have a small dish of assorted mints or candy at their ready.

19. Provide them with a binder that you have put together. It should include a local map, pamphlets of points of interest in your area, restaurant guides, etc.. Be sure and provide a good writing pad and pencil with this so they can write down any information they might need to.

20. Last but not least, you have done all the preparation work so once your guests arrive it is time to relax and enjoy their wonderful company!!