10 things Nan does when she's hosting that make us all feel like guests of honor

My mom is the GOAT of all hostesses. At least once a week, all 16 of us are over for dinner. Sometimes quite a few more, just depends on friends or other family in town. My parents drive way looks like a used car parking lot, and I love driving up to that. I feel so lucky, and hope my kids feel that when they’re my age.

Of course, my dad does his share!! He’s the one getting all of the groceries and running errands, turning on the hot tub, saying a family prayer, firing up the grill if needed. And together… they make us all feel like we were just hugged as soon as we enter the door. You can probably see all of our shoulders get visibly relaxed within the first ten minutes.

So here’s ten Nan ways to Host

1. There are appetizers out for grazing. Homemade hummus with crudites, cheese and crackers, you name it. No one gets hangry before the meal.

2. Menu is planned ahead of time. My mom is SO mindful about any allergy, any sort of diet, and all preferences … of every person in attendance. This is something that intimidates me, but it seems to invigorate her. She’s so creative in the kitchen. Her meals are nutrient dense, delicious, and varied. It’s inspiring.

3. My mom has lots of toys. For babies, toddlers, and my boys age. She has sort of created stations throughout her living area so all of her grandkids are playing. She’ll have crayons, play dough, a seasonal craft. It’s really so impressive and it makes her grandkids always be down to be there… and never want to leave.

4. Drinks are largely self serve. She has wine uncorked, and lots of sparkling waters, cups for the kids. You can just help yourself.

5. She uses the good plates, sets a beautiful table, and goes all out. It’s a lot of work. I can’t believe all she does for us every week. It’s a lot of effort, but I’m sure it’s got to be an unmatched feeling.

6. When it is time to eat, she makes a big buffet. I guess it’s years of cooking for crowds that will do it, but she times it all just right so things are somehow still hot.

7. If a child is not interested in eating, she’s usually the one that gets up and plays with them. Of course, without complaint and happily. Giving the parent even more of a night off.

8. Since there’s usually some hot tub / pool time after dinner, she makes sure all of the kids have bathing suits at her house, and pajamas for them to change into after. It’s all labeled in her laundry room. They hop into a bath or shower, get pjs, and can be all ready for bed when we get home.

9. With a big family, there’s always something to celebrate, and it feels like every other week it is someones birthday. She’s all ready for the theme, the cake, all of it. She celebrates us all so well, and thoughtfully.

10. With so many different aged kids and schedules, we’re always staggered leaving. Nina and Pop Pop drop whatever is going on to walk us to our cars. When my kids were little, helped us buckle them in. And a little last chat before we drive away. Then you see them waving us away. A long time ago, I told the boys to roll down the window and say “we love you! you’re the best”…. and now they shout this on their own every time as we drive off. It reminds me to always walk my guests to their car. It’s such a sweet, often overlooked gesture.

Hope you enjoyed a few of my observed Nan hosting tips (: