CLEANING HOUSE

Serious consideration was given to hiring a housekeeping firm to come in and clean my house in advance of Thanksgiving. I decided not to do that because I’m perfectly capable of cleaning my own house…when I want to. And, based on what I found just in the dining/computer/kitchen areas, I would have been red-faced had someone else come in with their mops/dust cloths/vacuums. 

Sheesh, I had no idea I’d become such a slovenly housekeeper. This morning, I began by dusting everything up high so whatever might fall to the floor could do so prior to my vacuuming and dusting the lower items. Everything got moved so I could clean under and behind. Wowzer, but I have to say I’m probably lucky the spiders that live in Washington aren’t poisonous.

I found spiders and spider webs in places I don’t think I’ve ever found them in the past. They were behind the table that holds photos and tchotchkes, beneath the chair seats, under the table, even in the window. I was shocked by all the places that held spiderwebs.

And, dust. Again, sheesh, but when I sprayed the tchotchke table and wiped, my dust cloth looked as though I’d taken it outside and dropped it in the dirt. All the glass sitting around as well as the framed photos had a coating of dust. I’ve tried to remember just when I last dusted the dining room and cannot recall when it happened. 

My computer and desk was another shock. I knew I’d slopped food on the glass covering the desk top, but I didn’t realize just how much I’d managed to miss my mouth or the bowl/plate. There were lots of “oops” because most days I eat breakfast at my desk and some days I also eat lunch and/or dinner there as well. I used to get annoyed with John because he ate at the desk and made a mess…guess I owe him a big apology.

Now, I just have a bit more cleaning to do which involves the kitchen and I don’t expect any surprises there. When I prepare food and do dishes, it’s almost a requirement to clean up after myself. Of course, I had no idea just how bad the dining room and computer area had become, so there may be a surprise or two left. I know if I moved the stove or fridge, I’d be looking at a mess because I haven’t done that for at least a year…maybe in January I’ll force myself to do a deep clean and get beneath those appliances. I guess it will just depend on how busy my social life is or how the book I’m reading at the time holds my interest.