
My youngest son invited a handful of friends for a sleepover. We hardly do sleepovers, but since it's the end of summer and friends, my son has known for years and the parents we also know, we entertained the idea when my son asked my husband and me. The boys slept at each other's homes once last year, and I guess it turned into a tradition to do it again this year. The friends were house-hopping for a couple of days during the week because they had early wake-up times as they were counselors for VBS, and they stayed late every day and started early the following morning. If anything, the boys just slept at each others' homes and didn't have time to hang out. It's not customary for our kids to spend the night elsewhere; we actually frown upon it but made an exception.
Before the boys came over, I laundered the bed and towel sets. We pulled out the air mattress and foldaway bed. We set the couches up so each person had their own space to sleep. We stocked the basement refrigerator with water, snacks, and the other toiletries they might need. As usual, my husband made sure to feed our guests with the best and most fulfilling meals.
While preparing everything for my son's friends, my son said something that piqued my ears. He said, "You don't have to do all of this. My friends don't care, and the other parents don't do all this when we come over." I knew why he said what he did. He didn't want us to stress over all the details and tried to make it easy. However, I responded, "I don't care what they do or don't do; this is what we do. Regardless of who the guest is, we will try to do our best to make them feel welcomed and at home." He responded, "Okay," but I think he was still confused as he observed my husband and I were both tired after checking off our "hospitality list."
It wasn't until the following morning when he wrote in our family group chat what he was grateful for (the photo for today's blog), that he understood the reason behind the details. Apparently, his friends commented and appreciated it when they noticed they each had a bed, toiletries, and towels prepared for them. It made my heart smile to hear that the extra touches even made 15 to 17-year-old teenage boys feel special.
My son's gratitude text reminded me that our home will always be our children's classroom. Even with an almost 21, 20, and 17 year old, it doesn't change. If anything, they are catching more.
Fellow Parents, regardless of our children's age, let's continue to be committed as our children's lifelong teachers. We can always make a difference.
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