Guest Towels

They are lovely, genteel, embroidered or lace-trimmed niceties. Some were hand-me-downs that had been meticulously stitched by my grandmothers or other relatives. Others were given as wedding shower gifts.

I've always enjoyed looking at them, studying their design and beauty. But I never put them out for "everyday" use. I tucked them away into my cedar chest for "later". Our first apartment and home didn't have many visitors, so I never got them out. My rationale was that grubby kids' hands and our everyday use didn't "need" anything so fancy.

Recently, I uncovered them while searching for something else. A whole stack of these pretties with a rainbow of colors and designs fell out onto the floor. My able assistants, Elizabeth and Claudia, spotted them.

"OH!" said our girls, "these are BEAUTIFUL, Mommy! How come WE don't get to use them?"

"Well, because they are for our guests," I said. "We keep them neat and nice and ready for our guests."

Unimpressed, one child said, "but we had guests last week and you didn't let THEM use them!" Blushing a little, I admitted that she was right! "I guess we will have to put them out for the next time, then!" and she quickly carried off a stack to put in our half bath just off the main hallway in our home.

I headed after her to intercept the towels, and then thought, "Why not?" Why not use them and enjoy their beauty? Why not have them always ready for friends young and old who stop by? She helped me arrange them in a small basket and hung one on the towel rack. Then she stepped back and admired her work.

"NOW we're ready for our guests!" she said as she headed off to play. I stood there, a bit chastened, and a bit bemused. It has always been my desire to have a home where friends are welcome, where neighbors could drop in, where the unexpected visitor finds a comfortable place to relax. This little incident reminded me that a little "extra" thought, even about something as miniscule as towels, could be a part of that.

So friends, be welcome. Come share our home. This time, I'll remember to let you use our guest towels! (I'm sure our daughters won't let me forget!)