Hospitality, Friendship, Encouragement

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Domestic Duties....

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are they a necessary evil or a delight? Maybe that is not the best way to put it, as there are some jobs to be done here at home that are not necessarily "evil" :) but are not a delight either!

As I was looking for art to put at the top of this post I came across a few "vintage" style posters that had modern sensibilities on them like "I child proofed my home, but they keep getting in" and "A clean house is a sign of a wasted life." Sad.

I was reading at Ladies Against Feminism today and there were several articles linked that mentioned that women are less happy now, inspite of feminism bringing them "freedom", than their quote "apron wearing counterparts of yesteryear."

Now any woman who keeps her home has things they like about it and things they don't like. But I know for me there is a satisfaction in making my home a warm, welcoming place for my family and for others.

Today, I am doing laundry and making chocolate chip cookies, and have done dishes and will do many more. I have planned my dinner, worked side by side with my little ones. I am planning in my head for family time after the older girls get home from work, and Tim awakens.

I love being in charge of my schedule and organizing all our activities. I love setting the table for dinner, even a simple one with real dishes, flowers from the garden, and cloth napkins.

With 7 people living in our home on a regular basis our 2 bathrooms get a real work out. I clean the main bathroom daily...sometimes several times a day! I just can't stand wet counter tops and toothpaste in the sink. It is not a huge and overwhelming thing to do, because I just do it as I come across it...

I guess this post is just to rejoice in the gift of my home and family and the duties that accompany them, and maybe just encourage you to think about your own home duties as a privilege.

4 comments:

Becky K. said...

I'll be honest and tell you that it sometimes makes me want to scream....the dog and cat fur, whiskers in the sink or about a zillion glasses on the kitchen counter. But, on days when I haven't overscheduled it is calming to restore order and gain joy from working with my children to make our home all neat and clean.

Now...I think the biggest key for me is not to overschedule myself!

Cheri' said...

I really enjoy your blog! I like your practicality and your insights into life. I especially related to the part where you said you find satisfaction in making your home a welcoming place for your family and friends! So true! I love making my home comfortable and peaceful for my family and friends!

Also, could you do me a favor and drop by my blog. I am asking for people to share ways they honor their husbands. I just know, from reading your blog and reading your precious comments about your husband, that you will most likely have some great ideas to share!

Deanna Rabe - Creekside Cottage Blog said...

I'm on my way over!

Cheri' said...

Thank you sooooooooo much for all your wonderful insights and ideas! I knew you would add so much! Thanks for taking the time to share all the ways you honor, appreciate and respect your husband! I loved every idea you shared!! Thanks again!

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