On a recent family trip to Mexico, there were many moss-covered trees like those we saw as we drove through the mountain forests of Veracruz. Or the ancient pyramid of Tajin, where steps carved with shell patterns ascend to the sky. Or food. food. Pineapple-kissed al pastor, tender carnitas, fried gorditas de papas, and fluffy tamales steamed in banana leaves.
But as I look back on the past two weeks visiting my grandmother’s childhood village, one moment trumps them all.
On the second day, we arrived in Tamsin after a full day of driving. There were lots of bathroom breaks and kids giggling and arguing in the backseat. Meeting my grandmother’s nieces for dinner was on my plans that night, and my stomach twisted into a knot as I walked from the hotel to Tia’s house.
My nerves were focused on one question. “What shall I say?” I didn’t speak Spanish, and the thought of traveling more than 3,000 miles without contacting my relatives broke my heart.
But as soon as we turned the corner, the whole family shouted hearty bienvenidos. The large white tent, bathed in twinkling lights, made us, both relatives and strangers alike, feel completely celebrated. The handmade background had the words “Bienvenidos a Casa Familia” written in gold letters. Baby’s breath spilled out of the empty wine bottles on every table. And then the metal fan exploded at full speed, providing some relief from the tropical heat.
My daughter and cousin in front of the welcome board.
That night, as we sat shoulder-to-shoulder eating the soft tortillas, crispy chicharrones, and chocolate moles that Tia and I had spent hours preparing, my fears of not understanding each other disappeared. My relatives made it clear that we were needed and loved.
Throughout our trip, our family continued to amaze us with their thoughtful acts of hospitality at every turn. Like the table at my cousin’s house covered in colorful tote bags, Mexican candy, and handkerchiefs.
And the fans that our cousins gave us at the Huasteca altar.
And the piñata they brought out to send us off. Little kids, and my grandmother too! — I was excited.
By the end of the trip, I felt energized by all the ways my family made us feel cared for. So on the flight home, I daydreamed about how I could make future guests feel special when they visited my home. So far, what I’ve come up with is:
* Hang a colorful “Welcome” sign in your living room.
* Bake a plate of delicious chocolate chip cookies.
* Stock up the guest bedroom with fresh flowers, a bag of See’s Lollypops (my favorite), and a disposable camera.
*Enjoy my most cozy dinner: Roast chicken and potatoes with Alison Roman’s Leafy Herb Salad.
What do you do to make your guests feel welcome? What have people done to make you feel celebrated? We’d love to know.
P.S. Tips on how to be a great guest and avoid small talk.
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