The sense of smell is intimately connected to memory, and if anything evokes coziness, it is a familiar scent. An aroma of fresh-baked cinnamon buns drifting out of your kitchen, the clean, fresh smell that wafts through an open door after a spring rain, or a spice candle can take someone back for decades. Be aware that when it comes to aromas, less is often better. Overwhelming scents easily can drive away people with sensitivity. Making your home a tactile experience allows guests to share the things you love and feel at home in your home.
Food brings people together, which makes kitchens the heart of a home.
Keep sensible, easy to prepare snack foods in the house, so that when friends drop in, you can offer a bite to eat. Sliced apples, fresh-popped popcorn, hot cocoa, or a pot of tea, and cookies will keep everyone happy and gathered together for good conversation. If your home feels cozy to you, chances are that guests will feel comfortable there, too, as will you and your family. Personal warmth, love, and laughter can transform even a stark room into a haven, and rarely are people shy about letting you know when they find your home cozy. Betty Oppenheimer is a writer and artist living on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state.