Always provide for your guests, no matter what their age.....
Recovering from the first of my sis and her friends' "Celebration of the 40's" events. Though, this was also celebrating all the January Birthdays (including my Mom). Not all invited were in attendance, but they had the manners to R.S.V.P. approriately. The house was full with old friends and not so old friends. All ages were covered from 3 years old to 88 years old.... An "international" group with backgrounds from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Chile, Iran, Germany/Switzerland, The Bahamas, and the USA.
What I have always grown up with and love about having any type of "get together" at the house is that EVERYONE is welcome. Both my grandmothers had the reputation and tradition of welcoming and feeding anyone that graced their doorsteps. Our home has gained the same reputation. It is almost a lost art of hospitality. It could also be considered a ministry of hospitality. Everyone who is in our home is made to feel part of the family and accepted... We run the gambit of enjoying music, conversation, good food and drink and letting things run their course....sometimes the spontaneous sing along, prayer, dance in the street and even some "raunchy" jokes and stories (the octogenarian has the best stories). If someone is too tired or had a little too much "hospitality", there are always extra pillows, clean sheets and a new toothbrush handy.
I know many people are separated from family (either emotionally or physically) and some only share part of their lives with them. It is difficult. Some have moved to new locations and are making new friends, also difficult. Connections are sometimes hard to make, so when you do find them, do what you can to nurture them. So, as has been part of my upbringing, anyone who is in my home is welcomed unconditionally.
Note:Some rules apply to being a guest, but that is another topic.
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