Let's face it. Having guests in your home can be both fun and stressful, depending on how prepared you are.
 Your mission, if you accept it, is to be prepared to HAVE FUN.
    With a minimum of prep, that is entirely possible. Besides, if you buy ahead of time, you're likely to save money and not be at the mercy of whatever prices you face if you wait till the last second.
     Think in terms of what you'd want if you were visiting someone. For me, the list would include: both time with my friends and time alone, a hot bath or shower once a day and a nice, clean, comfortable bed. Everything else would be a plus but I've always appreciated these things:
1. A small basket of travel size toiletries in a basket next to my bed or in the bathroom. Inevitably, I forget something  ( a nail trimmer, toothpaste, even my toothbrush) and I've always felt blessed by the hosts who have anticipated this and have extras on hand. I stock my guest basket with hand creams, soaps (scented and unscented), sample perfumes, toothbrushes, toothpaste, foot cream, antacids and sample sizes of Tylenol or Advil. Some bubble bath is nice too.
2. A small basket of fresh fruit and some candies next to the bed is a thoughtful gesture as is a water pitcher and glass (the kind where the water glass is also a lid when not in use).
3 . I buy on Ebay all year round in order to make sure I have fresh towels and sheets with decent thread count. Saves money too!
4. A selection of foods in the freezer for last minute meals or guests.
5. I find out ahead of time if my guests have any dietary restrictions and plan meals so there is something there they can eat.
6.. Be clear about whether pets are acceptable "visitors" or not (if you have allergies, say so) and be sure your guests know if you have pets. If your pet isn't always comfortable with lots of new people, you might consider having him stay with a friend for a few days  - or a trusted vet.
7. Allow your guests to pitch in if they offer. Make them feel like part of the family.  If they offer to help chop some veggies, let them. Lots of happy chatter can go on while preparing meals.
8. Be clear about your limits. If you absolutely can't tolerate smoking in your home, say so. No point in keeping quiet and feeling tense.
9. On the other hand, expect to compromise as well. Living with your friends can be more stressful than you might expect. Be tolerant, within reason.
10. Have some suggested events and/or activities for the kids and try to plan some events to share with your friends as well.
11. Relax, have fun and enjoy the season!