I embrace the world of inns and B&Bs in both my writing, and in my housewife role.
The Innkeeper
Every single inn has an INNKEEPER. The innkeeper may also step into other roles at the inn, but basically, he or she is the boss. The innkeeper makes all the final decisions and somewhat, directs the others.
In my stories, the innkeeper may be a family member of the amateur sleuth. She may be the sleuth, herself. Or, he may be simply a side-character. Whatever their level of importance, the innkeeper will always be featured in the book.
In my home, I play the part of the innkeeper. I greet guests, shop for the household, and decide on the decor of our home. I'm also in charge of running the household with various binders and checklists. I'm in charge of the bill-paying and household inventory.
The Gardener
There may not be a gardener in every cozy mystery I write, but there will be one in some of them. Maybe he or she will also be a family member. Maybe they will actually turn out to be a killer or a victim. Maybe he or she will be the local gardener that pops up in various places around town, giving them inside knowledge into the goings on from a secret perspective.
At home, I share the gardening responsibilities with Hubs. He does all the heavy stuff (digging, mowing, edging, etc), and I handle all the other stuff (planting flowers, choosing plants, watering)
The Resident Chef
At each inn or B&B in my stories, we will come to know the resident chef. He or she will be a significant feature in every book. Also, as a bonus, each book will contain a surprise recipe or two, that the resident chef will serve in the story.
At home, I am the resident chef. My duties have to do with all-things-kitchen. I keep stock on hand for cooking, baking, and serving. I serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while keeping snacks on-hand, as well. Also, as resident chef, I am in charge of keeping the kitchen clean and organized.
The Resident Housekeeper
Sometimes, the innkeeper is also the housekeeper. But for the majority of my stories, the housekeeper will be her own character. Maybe she will come from a different country or location in the US. Maybe she finds clues that the guests leave behind. Maybe she discovers a body. Maybe she, herself, is the amateur sleuth.
My housewife role relies heavily on my housekeeping tasks. I make beds, clean bathrooms, empty trash cans, and make sure the entire residence is neat and tidy. I make sure to keep a well-stocked cleaning supply closet, and I have my own binder with checklists.
The Guest Server
The guest server is the one who prepares the dining room and makes sure the guests are well-fed and have everything they need to enjoy each meal. This character may also be the innkeeper in the story, or she may also be the front desk person. Maybe a conversation is overheard that takes the mystery in a different direction. Maybe something is left behind after breakfast that offers a clue.
For my role at home, I plate each meal, and make sure everything is available for self-served seconds. I ensure the eating space is clean, and everyone has any condiments they require.
This post was all about how I plan to channel character roles while fulfilling my duties as housewife.
By imagining myself in these roles, I find playful joy in everyday tasks and responsibilities.
What about you? Are you inspired to add your own spin on the housewife life? Let me know in the comments below.
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