08/01/2026
You know what’s hard about being a short-term rental host? You never really stop being one… even on vacation.
This week was our family’s Christmas in July—a week at the lake with my family. Watching the kids disappear outside after breakfast, hearing laughter drift through the trees, and having everyone together reminded me why these trips matter.
Of course, my host brain never clocked out. Between pulling espresso shots and watching the kids jump in the lake, I caught myself counting towels, opening kitchen drawers, noticing the little details, paying attention to the host’s communication, and, naturally, browsing the MLS wondering, “What would it take to own a little cabin here?” Please tell me I’m not the only host who does this.
The week even started with a tornado nearby. High winds knocked out the power, and we spent our first night in the dark. By morning, our hosts had a generator running—and, thankfully, the espresso machine was back online. Priorities.
As wonderful as Faloma Lakeside Cabins were, the cabins weren’t my favorite part. It was coffee on the deck, cousins making memories, hikes through the forest, sunset swims, and simply having my family all in one place.
That’s what this trip reminded me: great short-term rentals aren’t just beautiful places to stay. They’re the backdrop for family traditions, late-night laughter, and memories that last long after the bags are unpacked.
And yes… I’m still thinking about that little lake cabin. A girl can dream.
