Augmented Post

Sometimes I have more to say. From a previous post:

Silent gratitude isn't very much use to anyone. - Gertrude Stein

Thank you for reading this blog.

Sometimes one way of showing gratitude is by having good manners. Lack of good manners is a sure-fire way of appearing that you do not appreciate another's generosity. One wouldn't think that in this day and age manners would need to be taught, but experience tells me otherwise. Here are a few thoughts on going to someone else's house:

- Arrive at a decent hour. If someone is providing a place for you to stay then don't arrive in the middle of the night - there are motels for that. If the proprietor of a motel wants to get a good nights sleep there is always the "No Vacancy" sign to turn on. Your hosts don't have that luxury.

- Remember that it is the whole family that is opening their home to you as a guest. That includes spouses, kids and pets. Treat them all with respect. When you leave, thank all of them for their generosity.

- Be interested in your hosts. Find out what their interests are - it will come in handy in expressing your gratitude. A token gift reflecting their interest is far more meaningful than a mere verbal thank you or something you like.

- Talk about things which interest your hosts - they may not care about what interests you. Include the whole family.

- Do your part. Remember someone's house is not a restaurant, motel, spa or vacation destination. Help with the cooking; do the dishes; clean up the mess; most of all, clean up your own mess (better than you would at home). To leave your hosts with extra chores will surely make them remember your stay - but it may not be a good memory. 

- When in Rome.......... Find out what your hosts preferences are and abide by them - not the way you usually do things.

- Reciprocate the generosity shown you. Make the effort to figure out what you can do whether it is buying dinner out, providing that something extra special for the house or meal, offering to take your car - something.

If your stay was a pleasure for your hosts you probably will be invited back! If they were generous enough to open their house to you then be generous enough to open your house - it was no easier for them than it is for you.