I’ve always loved to entertain and one of the things I most enjoy is having friends and family stay as weekend guests in my home. There are many easy ways to make your overnight guests feel special.  With a few extra dollars and a little bit of thoughtfulness you can turn your guest’s room into a mini Ritz Carlton.

Start off with a clean room and fresh linens–that’s pretty obvious.  Next fill a crystal bowl with an apple and a bannana and scatter with chocolate kisses.  Place the bowl on the nightstand along with a magazine or book that may be of interest to your guest.  If you stay in our guest room you’ll find a People magazine and a book about our local Mission at San Juan Capistrano.

 I purchased two fluffy terrycloth robes on sale and  keep them just for guests.  I arrange them on the bed before my guests arrive and it brings a welcoming touch to the room.

In the bathroom travel size items they may have forgotten - a toothbrush and toothpaste, a comb and brush, shaving cream, shampoo and conditioner, bandades, Q-tips and cotton balls, asprin and Tums, are placed in a basket.  Some items are from hotels I’ve stayed in, but most were purchased at Target. 

Right before my guests arrive I cut a few flowers from the garden, put them into small vases, and place them in the bedroom and bathroom.  With these little personal touches my guests are reminded how special they are to me.

To be a truly good host or hostess you need to be organized.  I plan the meals ahead of time so I can spend the optimum time renewing friendships.  The following is a breakfast menu I’ve used several times.  It’s easy–and delicious.  Give it a try!

Ham and Cheese Strata

10 slices white bread

8 ounces cheddar cheese

4 ounces diced baked ham – purchase one piece 1/4-inch thick

6 eggs

3 cups whole milk

salt to taste

8 tablespoons butter, melted

1 teaspoon prepared mustard

4 tablespoons onion, finely chopped

Spray a 9 X 13 casserole pan with PAM.

Use a cookie cutter to cut bread slices.  For Christmas use the tree or star cutter.  Cut enough to top the casserole dish.

Place scraps of bread (tear into 1-inch pieces) in casserole dish.  Cover with cheese slices and top with ham.  Place cookie cutter bread on top of ham. 

Beat eggs.  Whisk in milk, salt, butter, mustard and onions.  Pour over casserole and cover with Saran wrap.  Refrigerate overnight.

Remove dish from refrigerator.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Bake uncovered for one hour until puffed and golden.  Rest for 5 minutes before cutting. 

Serve with fresh fruit and our Christmas Bloody Mary.