It was week one of 31 days to clean at my house. I did not do what the challenge suggested, however I did clean out my family room. I know that organizers and planners have good reasons for wanting you to start in the kitchen but I needed to start in a room that I could clean and might have a chance at staying clean. That’s the family room for me. My problem with starting a seasonal deep clean with the kitchen is that I’m never ahead of the game because the kitchen never stays clean. I could spend all my spare time in my kitchen every day and it would need attention again about 2 hours later.
So, I’m not exactly following the 31 days to clean format but I am motivated for my own Spring Clean. So much so, I was talking with a friend on Wednesday night and we have a bit of a challenge going between us. We will compare trash and donation piles each week to see whose is bigger. It helps to know that although I personally feel like I should be more accomplished at this simple domestic challenge, I’m not alone in finding it difficult to maintain a tidy home.
The friendly challenge came about when I told her that with all the turmoil from weather our country has had lately, I began to think about what it might be like to have a tornado go through this house. That led me to think of my stuff a little bit differently. My standard for my purge this month is this – as I hold each item I will ask myself “would I ever miss it if my house was destroyed?” and if it’s not a sentimental item, “would I replace it if my house was destroyed and I was starting over?” Hopefully these two questions and a little personal honesty will help me have some clarity on the stuff that is piling up around here.
A minor success? Last night a dear neighbor stopped by after my husband posted that he had made us margaritas for Cinco de Mayo. Although my house is a mess, at least we could sit in the tidy family room and enjoy a neighborly chat and a drink. Perhaps I’m not hopeless after all!
I hope you are finding success at your house!
Cheers!
Amaranthine Image 
I’d call yesterday a major success! Hate thinking about how many experiences like that I’ve avoided sharing with friends because everything wasn’t Company Ready. Thanks!
Great questions to ask when decluttering! Going to use them next time I’m decluttering (hopefully my sewing area!!)
The kitchen is usually the last place for me to tidy up too…for the same reason… 🙂
Just saw this…really liked your two questions…as I have begun my own spring cleaning with the target of getting married and consolidating two homes, these are great questions for my fiancee and I to remember.
Thanks!! =)!