Hostess in the Making

Okay, so I have been accused on more than one occasion of being a little sentimental. I am not the type to save every last piece of memorabilia, invitation, lock of hair, movie ticket, etc, however I will not deny falling into the ‘Schmultz’ category from time to time. Of this I am proud, as my family and friends have grazed on a delightful feast of memories and good times as a result.

Part of the ‘Schmultz’ rituals would be hosting a house warming party. These are the occasions that can establish so much more than a fuller pantry or an odd collection of potted plants.

Having recently moved myself, I will be expecting my nearest and dearest to attend our house warming this Saturday night. I know this will be an opportunity to reinforce some firm family guidelines for hosting as well as creating great memories and traditions for my 12 yr old daughter, who is currently in training in the ‘hosting’ department. Her ‘privilege’ when we host dinners is to set the table which has proved to have killed two birds with one stone….she gets to exercise her hilariously original creative flair (always a great conversation starter) whilst giving her a chore to own and be solely responsible for. The look of pride and achievement on her face is priceless when a guest comments on the table.

I have written before on the power of the ‘nothing’ moments. Don’t let parties slip by with the kids placed in front of yet another video. Grab the ‘nothing’ opportunity of them just being present and watching how you conduct yourself and present your home in the company of guests. Of course, not all gatherings a designed for children, so please exercise wisdom.

It’s amazing how much they will watch and absorb in these fabulous years of their lives. Although the list below seems extensive, with enough practice, it is actually possible. Read through, write some down, apply them and see what emerges in your young charges. They are so capable when given the chance.

Things my daughter has and will continue to learn:

* This is her house…in no way is she a guest.
* Her opinion counts…who but a child knows exactly where fairy lights should go!
* Helping mum in turn helps her experience. An unfrazzled mum is such a nicer host.
* Friends are important enough to dress up for, decorate for and get excited about.
* How to meet and greet our guests.
* Acceptable partying behaviour.
* Understanding that planning and effort is required if you want a desired result.
* To think outside of herself… if younger children are coming, provide toys… if elderly members of the family are coming, provide a cushion on the most comfortable chair… if vegetarians are coming, provide appropriate food, etc.
* Who the trusted guests in our home are and which rooms they can and cannot enter.
* To be proud of her home, no matter what the size, design or décor, knowing people not things make a home.

Whatever the occasion, whether it’s a house warming, a family reunion, a barbeque, or a birthday party, know that little eyes are watching you from start to finish. Yes, that means cleaning up afterwards too! Let them join in, allow them a little more room to ‘warm’ your home. In the years when they have flown the coup, you will thank yourself for letting the party decorations look ‘different’ than in the magazines, the name tags to be spelt incorrectly in hot pink glittery pen, drinks served in egg cups and my personal favourite My Little Pony paraphernalia lining the driveway ‘because it looks pretty’! You will smile, and wish that you had let them do it more often.

Cheers!
Michaela.

ps – I will let you know how the house warming goes!
©The Family Room 2006