It has always been fun for me to prepare a welcome home for my husband when he has been away. If he has been gone for a week, one night or just for the day, I want him to know that his family has missed him in his absence. He works at home, from a home office, which we love, but we don't get the "Daddy's coming home from work" time each day. So, when he does leave the home, I want his return to be as pleasant as possible for him. Taking just a few minutes to think about his homecoming, and purposefully preparing for it, helps to make sure he is greeted with...
Good smells - something bubbling on the stove or something baking in the oven, a pot of coffee on, or just a good smelling candle burning
Good sights - a tidy home, or at the very least "his" areas tidy
Good sounds - minimal noise, television and radios off, washer and dryer stopped
Good tastes - a special treat, a stocked fridge of his favorite things is especially nice after a long trip away from home
If it is after dark - the porch light on, of course! soft lighting inside - a small lamp, nightlights
If it is cold outside - a fire in the fireplace, nothing says welcome home more than that! warm towels and bed clothes fresh from the dryer
And most importantly and probably most appreciated of all - a smile and a kind word!
What do you do to say welcome home? Please share your ideas in the comments if you would like. I would love to hear them. :-)
Linked to A Wise Woman Builds Her Home.