Update: It's Not Just Me!

I've discovered, by chance, that I am not the only one out there who struggles with my lackadaisical attitude towards housework!! There is actually a book, a tome, if you will, addressing the very concerns expressed in an earlier post bemoaning any time spent on housework and whether it's a worthwhile activity for any sane person, expecially a mom!

Well, worry no longer. Mary Randolph Carter has put all of these concerns into the wonderful book, Perfectly Kept House is the Sign of A Misspent Life: How to live creatively with collections, clutter, work, kids, pets, art, etc... and stop worrying about everything being perfectly in its place. Wow, what a title. Maybe I should start going by my maiden name as a middle name...it sounds kinda cluttery...I think I like the sounds of that!

What's the Use?

Housework. The bane of my existence. On the whole, I believe that I maintain our home at an acceptable level. I think this to be especially true when I consider the fact that I grew up in a home where my mom had a propensity for hoarding. Her weapon of choice was mail. She couldn't throw anything out, especially the notices from the late Ed McMahon who would announce potential winners for American Family Publishers.

Who knew? I've not ever watched a single episode of the strangely popular show, Hoarders but I know people who do love watching it because they say it motivates them to clean their house. I think it's different for people who have lived with a hoarder...I can't imagine the allure of watching it. So, in order to avoid that pitfall I looked up some potential causes for clutter and thought I might address my clutter while keeping these points in mind.

1. You have too much clutter.
2. You don't have an established daily cleaning routine.
3. You don't do your cleaning routine often enough.
4. You never do a big clutter purge. 
5. You have kids. 
6. Your kids don't help with the chores.
7. Your husband doesn't help clean the house.
8. You don't know how to clean.
9. Your cleaning standards are too high. 
10. You really don't have the time or ability to clean.