Do you ever have unexpected visitors drop in?
While it’s usually a pleasure to catch up with friends and family, these days I prefer a bit of notice if they are planning to visit me at home.
This is partly because I work from home and it helps me to better schedule my work week; and partly so I can make sure the house is tidy (as per my Cheat’s Guide to Housework, LOL).
But if they do stop by unexpectedly, I would hope it would be within regular visiting hours.
Home or Hospital?!
I don’t mean to make my home sound like a hospital! (Although there is much to be said for an hour or two of “no visitors” to allow for an afternoon nap, whether you are in hospital or at home on the weekend!)
In years gone by, a phone call before 7am or after 9pm would make me panic – because outside of those times, I think most of us would consider it rude to phone, unless it was an emergency.
Of course these days we don’t even have a home phone.
However I would imagine much the same would apply for visiting hours – although I’d probably make it a slightly narrower window – say 8am to 8pm. That way I should (hopefully) be dressed and ready to receive company!
It’s different if friends or family phone, text or give you some other form of advanced warning of their intention to visit.
But when it comes to the unexpected caller, I think the concept of visiting hours has some merit. Maybe I should consider a sign on the front door to that effect! Or am I just getting a bit eccentric grumpy in my middle age?!
Do you think it’s okay to just drop in on friends or family unexpectedly? What do you think are acceptable visiting hours in your home?!
Travelling Macs says
I definitely think a bit of notice is appropriate for visits.. With my busy work week, I love my unstructured tim- maybe it’s cause I too , am middle aged . This feeling goes out the door if it’s close family aka my kids and their family ,then the door is always open and I’m always ready ???
Janet Camilleri says
Of course, kids are always welcome! I had a “friend” drop in before 7am recently which was stretching it a bit in my opinion …
Raelene says
I think if you’re working from home, yes, you might need to let folk know that. Personally, I love folk dropping in, being a shut in myself, I appreciate anyone who feels the urge to call in. The kettle is always on!
Janet Camilleri says
I was like that when I lived by myself Raelene. Of course kids and immediate family are always welcome!
Deborah says
I don’t tend to ever drop in on people unannounced. My mum’s generation seems to and I used to think it was because I lived in a large city and you wouldn’t drive across town without knowing someone would be there. But even now I don’t just call in on people. Worse case scenario I’d ring enroute / while out to see if they’re home and I only do that with my mum, some rellies and good friends.
Janet Camilleri says
I used to once upon a time … but haven’t done for years.
Kez @ Awesomely Unprepared says
Oh gosh yes, notice is needed! I would hate for someone to drop by and be disappointed that we’re too busy or headed out or not even home. I also hate that feeling of being caught off guard when I’m bra-less and the house is looking very… *ahem* LIVED IN.
I am so happy to have at least an hour to two hour’s notice! But probably make it overnight notice for best results haha.
Janet Camilleri says
Phew, glad I’m not the only one who would be embarrassed by her wardrobe choices should unexpected company stop in!
Anna Marcus says
I didn’t mind friends dropping in unannounced when I was younger and ready to have fun any time of the day. These days as much as i love to have people over, I would appreciated to receive a phone call first
http://lookingfabulousat50.blogspot.com.au/
Jo Tracey says
I don’t like to call in on people without notice, but I like it when they feel comfortable enough to drop in on me – within reasonable hours, of course. Like you I work from home – and so now does hubby, so mid week drop-ins are a no no.
Beth | AlmostPosh.com says
I’m from the country where dropping in unannounced was a thing and nothing unusual. When I moved to the city, I learned it wasn’t as acceptable and now I would be aghast at the thought of someone dropping in without warning! Ten minutes is all I need.
Janet Camilleri says
I definitely prefer a bit of warning Beth, but close friends and family are always welcome. This post was motivated after I had a friend (but not a particularly close one) visit at 6.55am on a Monday … I just thought it was weird!