The Day I Didn’t Get Anything Done

I must start by saying that I hate cleaning. I love a clean house, but I actually hate cleaning. I think part of it comes from the way I was raised. My mom worked full time and my dad had his own business and worked all the time. Therefore, Saturday's were reserved for cleaning. My mom and I cleaned from top to bottom, while my dad was working. I wasn't allowed to have friends over or go outside until it was done, and it seemed to take forever! Until 2 months ago, I worked full time and I was able to afford the luxury of paying someone to clean once a week. As soon as I was laid off I let her go, as it was an expense we couldn't afford, and if I was home every day, I felt that it was my job to keep the house clean.

My mother in law babysat for us when I was working, and she graciously agreed to babysit once a week for me so that I could have time to clean the house from top to bottom without distractions, little fingers in the way, or additional messes being made simultaneously. Things were going rather well, despite the fact that I absolutely hated every minute of the cleaning, which I somehow managed to drag out long enough to take all day. Then one week my mother in law had a medical emergency and couldn't babysit. So I had to clean the house with a 2 year old around. I made out a plan the night before with my husband. After the little one went to bed we went around and straightened and picked everything up, did dishes and ran the dishwasher. The next day I was going to try to keep her messes to a minimum, do the bathrooms and kitchen while she napped and then when my husband came home I was going to vacuum and mop the floors while he kept her out of the way.

Well despite the child's best efforts I was actually was able to accomplish what I set out to do. I cleaned 3 bathrooms, dusted, emptied the dishwasher, did any remaining dishes, cleaned the kitchen counters, the stove, sink, and table, all the while keeping her toys and play areas contained and the messes minimized. I was so proud of myself and I actually started to think that I could do this often without having to involve my mother in law. I was totally exhausted and I sat down for a little bit before my husband got home. I figured once he got settled, I would hand over the child responsibilities and do the floors. I heard my husband come in and put his stuff down and he walked into the room. He then asked what still had to be done tonight, as he knew that I would need help getting things finished. I was all excited to tell him how much I had accomplished, and I started by saying, "we have to vacuum and mop…" when he cut me off and said, "So you didn't get anything done today?"

 And then I lost it.