The ONE thing I cannot get under control in my home (besides the 2 year old of course) is my constant cycle of laundry. It is always there. I never have it done. The floors can be clean for at least a couple of days. Clean sheets even longer than that. I can keep toilets clean like a week and the yard work is ‘taken care of’ by the lovely Daddo. Most everything can be accomplished, but laundry is never ending. I’m sure moms everywhere can agree with me on this one.
For me, the worst part of the laundry job is putting away the clothes. Pressing the start button on the washer and walking away is an automatic feeling of productivity. Then moving it to the dryer is another step accomplished. But by the time I get the loads folded, its passed the kids’ bedtime and the clothes stay on the dining room table. The next day, the process of washing and drying repeats itself and the piles increase. But I have to move quicker to get it all put away before the kids are in bed or its back to square one the next afternoon. I start loads before work, and immediately after. I’ve tried everything.
Just the other day I was really stressed over this daily challenge that I have. Then, for some reason, I suddenly thought about the 20 mothers in Connecticut who no longer have their childrens’ dirty laundry to clean. What they would give to have their sons’ sweaty socks, and their daughters’ sparkly shirt to wash and proudly fold and place in their little drawers. I immediately felt an enormous amount of gratitude and JOY for having these dirty, worn, used items every day to clean. Being a mom is an absolute blessing from God. With this amazing gift comes the pleasure of mom chores. I am eternally grateful for that. Right now, my sons are staining the knees in their windpants that have been washed numerous times. My daughter is getting snot and baby food on her shirt. I am overjoyed to know that my kids and Daddo are dirtying up something for me as I type this. I will not gripe and complain the next time I find my 6 year old doesn’t have a pair of blue jeans in his closet without a torn knee. I’m so thankful he has the health and energy to make those rips.
That is my positive outlook on this overwhelming chore that continues to get the best of me. ‘Take that!’ pile of laundry in my hamper at home. I am SO GLAD you are there waiting for me.
Thank you God for blessing me with the 5 people in my life to give me laundry.