Domestic Artistry

Public Domain Pictures.net/Sheri

Rise and Shine Ladies!

Not all the children at the party recognized the cake, but my son did. It was after all a perfect replica of a Hoover, hose and attachments included. He had a liking for vacuums and each party favor bag was of course, a vacuum bag full of goodies!

Vacuuming does not feed my domestic appetite as much as all that. Nevertheless, a shiny, fresh-smelling, well managed home offers me much delight.

This book excerpt is encouraging...

"Suppose then you content yourself for the present

with doing in a faithful, quiet, persistent way

all the little homely tasks that return with each

returning day, each one as unto God..."

Suitable tools are part of making house keeping easier. So is a place for those tools where they can be assembled together. A medium size, short sided box works well, or a plastic caddy. The Dollar Tree is well stocked with microfiber cloths, dusting cloths, Woolite products, Spic and Span, and mini-brooms for sweeping bathrooms or entries.

Homemade cleaning solutions are another useful agent. My windows sparkle from a mixture of water, vinegar, and Dawn dish soap. Baking soda does wonders when cleaning linoleum flooring.

Involving your family in the house keeping chores can be challenging so I'd like to share a system with you that I utilized when my boys were younger.

Simply called, "The Dailies." I wrote down every chore which needed to be done on a daily basis on a blank index card. These were taking out the trash,

putting away laundry, cleaning the bathroom mirror, etc. I placed each card upside down on the table and each of us chose three or four. The boys enjoyed a variety and I was able to teach them to do all the basics.

Next we constructed a stack of "The Monthlies." On weekends we each chose one or two from that stack. Those chores were cleaning ceiling fans, wiping down the baseboards, dusting the bookcases, etc. The system was very successful! It is more difficult now that the boys are becoming men because they are required to accomplish work for others as well. That's okay. I am able to even utilize the system alone. It is time for them to start establishing their futures.

As you carry out your homely little tasks today know that "God notices even the most trivial act..." and He delights in your effort.

Have a blessed day,

Alis

Book excerpt from Stepping Heavenward.