The snow finally fell and stuck.  Four inches, enough that I could snowshoe through our woods…the quiet, the trees laden with snow, boughs bent to block my path: Winter has arrived.

For many of my friends who are Inn-keepers, this is a very busy time of year. I know that the decorating is done, holly on the mantels, wreaths on windows and doors; that Christmas tree lit almost all day (and night). The Santa Claus collection dusted off and cleaned of candle wax, hand-crafted angels spreading joy and goodwill and the old favorite tunes “Santa Claus is coming to Town” variations playing in your Inn.   Holiday parties each night, dining room guests enjoy the table vases filled with balsam twigs and holly berries.

If you have been good at marketing, take on-line reservations, your website inviting your guests by showing your readiness to celebrate, let them know how they can enjoy themselves, that the ski slopes are open, I know that your telephones have been ringing and your rooms are fully booked. Congratulations!

Now, how are you personally? How is your spouse? How about the kids, your personal time for shopping, cooking a meal, putting up your feet, and getting a good nights’ rest?

For Innkeepers this can be a stressful time; it is a time that you give intensely of yourself to bring and create a festive and meaningful time for others and hopefully that brings you joy and gratefulness to be healthy and capable of the ability to do so. Remember your family in your planning for each day, do one special thing to let them know that you care; a little note under their pillow, a cookie set out for them when they get home from school.

Start your day by reviewing the important tasks: I know that the day will evolve, filled with unexpected demands.  Each night take a moment and think of one person that appreciated your service, your decorations, your food, your setting the stage for them to have a good time. Let it be enough… share it with your spouse and your staff the next day. They too need to feel good about all their extra efforts.  After all, teamwork makes your success.

Each evening, when the day is done, just for one moment, in the privacy of your home, light your candle and tell your significant other how important their contribution, their love, their caring was for you today. It will make a great difference! Happy Hanukah, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year. Heide

Tags: Heide Bredfeldt, holiday stress, Inn Partners, innkeeping, Inns