I was traumatized by growing up in a messy household. Between 6 kids, numerous dogs and 2 pack-rat depression era parents, little was thrown away or put away in my childhood home. Someone ringing the doorbell unexpectedly was cause for panic and the once a year dinner party that my parents hosted was preceded by an all out attack on the state of the house always accompanied by my mother hyperventilating that she would never finish before the guests arrived and my dad's temper tantrums over us kids inability to read his mind and do what he wanted us to do.
I vowed to never live like this once I was in charge. Not that my own household never saw out of control days, but they were never a permanent state and once we could afford it, I had regular cleaning help. In fact, my kids' favorite day was Friday when the cleaning ladies came and we all returned home to a sparkling house that smelled of lemon wax.
I am currently a house guest at the Portland abode of 3 of my daughters. They professed - and I believe them -that they cleaned for days before my arrival. In fact, while 2 picked me up from the airport, the other was polishing the floor. But, I am afraid,the house has quickly returned to its natural state.
How can I describe this state? Suffice it to say that my parents would feel right at home.
I don't know if it is all the therapy I have been through or a new zen state of maturity on my part but somehow I have been able to relax and enjoy their company surrounded by empty beer bottles, old pizza boxes, shredded dog toys and other assorted dirty dishes, glasses and plain old trash.
Soon enough I will be rattling around in my newly empty Paris nest and frankly that thought makes this cluttered nest look like House Beautiful.
Beautiful post! I think I need some of that therapy to 'understand' and accept my teen's mess! B
Posted by: Brigitt | August 28, 2009 at 02:58 PM
It's a good way for Jupiter to get in-between meal snacks!
Posted by: Claudia | August 28, 2009 at 03:52 PM
Sounds like you had a nice time! It was great seeing you!
Posted by: Stacy | September 04, 2009 at 02:40 AM
So, how is it going back in your French nest? Maybe too soon to tell? I am sure your new job is taking up a fair share of your time as is that much-looked forward to thesis! I guess this is the time to stay busy. Sounds like you got both Jane and Katie off and running!
Posted by: Carrie Dern | September 17, 2009 at 07:06 AM
Made my life easier..thanks
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Posted by: Cameron | February 08, 2010 at 11:32 PM