Seriously, if you come over to my place, don't look at the mess! I'll admit that even before guests arrive, I kick myself in the butt a little and pick up what I can. I'm a compulsive slob, haha! I vacuum, I clean the bathroom, we always eat off clean dishes, and the clothes are always washed.
I feel like housework is a never-ending race, especially with 4 (soon to be 5) kids. Cleaning with kids around is like brushing your teeth before eating chocolate—it doesn’t even seem like you’ve done it. Yes, I’m the type to procrastinate more often than not, but I’m also capable of doing a great job cleaning—I just have to make it a priority, which isn’t often the case. I prefer to be involved in the different aspects of my children’s lives (being coach (such as soccer or organizing fundraisers for school field trips).
It upsets me that I’m not measuring up. I’m trying, though. My mom is discouraged, and I know she’s very critical of my housekeeping when she comes over. She raised my sister and me as a single parent. We used to do little chores to help her, like vacuuming the second floor or cleaning the bathrooms. I have four kids, and I’m having a hard time assigning them chores. I promise myself I’ll put this into practice soon, because I feel they need to learn that when you live somewhere, you help keep that place running smoothly.
No, we don't live in filth, but yes, my house could be cleaner. I'll admit that sometimes I envy the girls and their homes Pinterest or those who can afford the luxury of a housekeeper. Everyone makes their own choices and sets their own priorities. Ultimately, I’d rather my house not be “spotless,” but for the kids to be able to play and have fun without worrying about getting scolded for making a mess. In short, I prefer a lively home!