I decided to resurrect a 2018 column not just because it seemed so timely but also to give myself a writing break this week. My brain needs a breather! Enjoy!
What do you think about doing during these summer months? I bet you are probably not planning on doing anything related to this month’s lifeskill – housekeeping! Yet, we all know the dirt and grime around our homes don’t take a vacation.
So, let’s see how we can at least keep in pace with the grime for those fun summer evening gatherings with family, friends and neighbors. While we are prepping for our getaway summer times, let’s respond to seven questions about housekeeping. These questions are offered by Bob Tiede at At Leading With Questions, from wisdom leaders around the nation and world. (Source: Marc Chernoff’s list of questions, Thought Provoking Questions to Ask Yourself in 2018.)
• What life lesson did you learn the hard way?
Even though it is so tempting to ignore regular housecleaning chores during the summer months, the mess always catches up with me. This is particularly more frustrating when I neglected any springtime cleaning.
Procrastination never really works out very well. Yet, there is a silver lining. When my hubby and I get a surprise call that a friend or neighbor is dropping by in the next 30 minutes, our motivation magically reappears as we scurry cleaning around the living room, kitchen, and bathrooms. And don’t forget the sweep the front door and patio oak leaves left from seasons gone by!
• What does your joy look like today?
In one phrase: When the housecleaning is done! Or when my hubby surprises me and starts vacuuming and cleaning the kitchen! Do I feel guilty for not doing it myself? No way! Why? Life and marriage is a team effort. And it’s his turn anyway! That’s my excuse. What is yours?
• How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?
This one is easy. One word says it all: Old … that is when the aches show up when and after I vacuum and mop the floor!
• What makes you smile?
This is another easy one. I am always smiling when I watch my hubby, John, do some housecleaning.
• How would you describe yourself in one sentence?
I am a recovering Messie! For those who are acquainted with Sandra Felton’s Messies Anonymous, be sure to check her out. Felton will give you incredibly helpful hints and tips on how to describe yourself in one sentence.
Are you a Cleanie? If so, I am so happy for you, right? If you are a Messie, welcome to the rest of us! Be of good cheer. If I can be a recovering Messie, so can you!
• When you close your eyes what do you see?
Whenever I close my eyes, I see my house magically clean throughout. The disappointment happens when I open my eyes!
• When you think of “home,” what, specifically, do you think of?
If the focus is simply housekeeping, I find myself thankful for the home I have with all its dirt, grime, dirty clothes, bed sheets to change, toilets and bathtubs to clean. Yet, home is so much more than the “stuff” we have around us. Home becomes a sweet haven when those you love are sharing the abode and “stuff” with you.
Now, it’s your turn again to choose what makes you smile, bring joy, and reflect on when you think of “housekeeping” and your “home!”
Sharon L. Benedict is a writer/author, weaver, and lifeskills/wellness advocate . . . and loving it! She welcomes your questions, comments and can be contacted at [email protected]. Visit her website at https://celebratingyourjourney.com/.
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