Rules for Visiting

1. Do not arrive telling stories about the difficulties of your trip.

2. Bring a gift.

3. Make your bed and open the curtains. A guest room is not a cave just because it’s temporary.

4. Help in the kitchen, if you’re wanted.

5. Unless you are very good with children, wait until you hear at least one adult moving around before getting up in the morning.

6. Don’t feed the pets.

7. Don’t sit in your host’s place.

8. If you break something, admit it.

9. Say good night before bed.

10. Always send a thank-you note.

There are others, but these are the essentials. They should cover every house and living situation, large or small, rich or poor, cozy or elegant, married or single, children or no children, and every kind of visit, family or friend, local or abroad, long or short. I have very few friends and not one of them is replaceable. May you settle and find good friends.