I’ve got a houseguest coming tomorrow!
I’m so excited, because A) I get to see my friend for the past 25 years and B) It’s so special when you have someone staying at your home.
This is the time to let your friends or relatives know that you’re happy they are here — and even more importantly, that they are special to you.
As with most every other aspect of life, it’s the little things that mean a lot. So tonight, I thought I would share the bath setup I arranged for my pal Liz (only a big photo would do to show you the details).
There is one thing to remember when preparing for houseguests — Think of the most pleasant hotel room you have ever enjoyed.
Note the following I included in the bath:
A coffeemaker. Many people can’t face anyone without a cup, so I bought this 4-cup Mr. Coffee at Walmart for $13 so my guests do not need to leave the room for a cup of joe. It’s pre-filled with water and coffee. Press “start” and welcome to the a.m.
A cup and coffee acoutrements. I used a cup and saucer this time so my guest won’t worry where to put down the coffee. A small cordial glass holds sugars (and I will put creamer in there before bed.) My mom raved about a hotel in England where the coffee cup was china, so I took my cue from that.
Fresh towels and a wash cloth. No tattered ones. Just your nicest towels freshly laundered and a wash cloth. I just bought these Egyptian cotton ones today for $6.99. (I told you I was done with those old white ones I had!)
A soap dish and soap. I looked high and low, but could not find a hotel one I saved, but this is a nice one. I put it in a Wedgwood ashtray I had — but that’s another tip. 
A bag of bed treats. I lucked out at the last hotel I stayed out (Crowne Plaza) because they had this organza bag that included an eye mask, ear plugs and more. I snagged it for my “houseguest bag” — a zip lock plastic bag where I stash all goodies from hotel rooms. Oh, but that’s another tip
A tray of lotion, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, floss and a toothbrush. I always forget something when I travel (usually a razor), so I stock up from hotel rooms for when I have guests. You could also buy some travel size items, or get free ones from your dentist (like I did) and from coupon shopping (the deodorant).
Honestly, this took less than a half-hour to set up, but I know my guest will be flattered for her overnight stay. If you don’t have a private bath for your guests, you could easily assemble a basket in their room with the items. The towels and coffee will need to go separate, but they will be so appreciated.
I hope this gives you some ideas to go off of when you have your next houseguest. Remember a little means a lot to your friends and family.
10:56 am
I’m just wild about Harry. Last night, thanks to your inspiration, I went into my bathroom with a new attitude and threw out all sorts of stuff that I hadn’t used in years–now I actually have shelf space free–wow. Thanks to you Harry and Thanks to CCC. I have bookmarked your blog and re-read past posting for ideas. Thank you
12:30 pm
Too “Bleepin’” thoughtful! Totally will do next time I have a guest (a wanted guest, LOL) stayin’ over for a visit!!!
11:05 pm
Ba da da da DA da da DAH ….they say it’s your BIRTHDAY!
Ba da da da DA da da DAH….Happy Birthday TO ya!
OK. ba da da dah’s don’t really translate well, but you get my drift, I hope!
Happy Birthday, Harry!
12:00 am
I was the guest and I felt like I was at 10-star hotel. Felt very pampered, can’t believe we’ve known each other 25 years … we met in preschool, right?
Was delighted to be your guest!
4:22 am
I have occasionally tried the other ideas, but the coffee maker?! You are inspiring!!
9:18 pm
Thanks for the link. I have a basket of samples I’ve snagged online for when the folks visit. Mom loves to relax in the tub and try the new products I’ve gotten for her.
1:39 pm
Oh that’s wonderful — it really does make people feel special. Friends of mine snagged all the fancy bath items from the Palazzo Hotel in Vegas, which are really cool. It’s all in the details, which says, “We’re glad you’re here”