An extract from a 1950 Home Economics book: (An absolute must for Goanetters’ wives).
Have Dinner Ready. Plan ahead even the night before to have a delicious meal on time. This is a way of letting him know you have been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospects of a good meal are part of the warm welcome needed. Prepare Yourself. Take fifteen minutes to rest so you will be prepared when he arrives. Touch up your makeup, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people. Be a little gay and a little more interesting. His boring day may need a lift. Clear Away The Clutter. Make one trip through the main part of the house just before your husband arrives, clearing up toys, books etc. Then run a dust cloth over the tables. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order and it will give you a lift too. Prepare The Children. Take a few minutes to wash the children’s heads and faces (if they are small), comb their hair and if necessary change their clothes. They are little treasures and he would like to see them playing the part. Minimize All Noise. At the time of his arrival, minimize all noise of washer, dryer, dishwasher or vacuum. Try to advise the children to be quiet. Be happy to see him. Greet him with a warm smile and show you’re glad to meet him. Some Dont’s. Don’t greet him with problems or complaints. Don’t complain if he’s late for dinner. Count this as minor as compared with what he might have gone through that day. Make Him Comfortable. Make him lean back in a comfortable chair or suggest he lie down in a bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him. Arrange his pillow or offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low, soft, soothing and pleasant voice. Allow him to relax and unwind. Listen To Him. You may have a few things to tell him but the moment of his coming is not the time. Let him talk first. Make The Evening His. Never complain if he does not take you out to dinner or to any other entertainment. Instead try to understand his world of strain and pressure, his need to come home and relax. The Goal. Try to make your home a place of peace and order where your husband can renew himself in peace and spirit. Roland Francis. Toronto.
