You know you’re spring cleaning when you …
… vacuum out the pen cup
That’s right: the pen cup. That coffee mug or other ceramic vessel which holds things like pens, paperclips, erasers c. 1987, bent thumbtacks, pieces of three different eyeglass repair kits, etc. Ever taken all the stuff out of that cup and looked at the inside of it? It’s gross! Lo, I am a woman with many pen cups. One by one, they are being vacuumed to squeaky.
… wipe down the rocking part of the rocking chair
You think rocking back and forth in a chair keeps the dust off? Well, it doesn’t! Get that rag out!
… inspect and organize the tool box
Notice I did not say the “toolbox.” A “toolbox” sounds more consequential than the big, lidded, blue plastic tub where I toss any janky, tool-like object I encounter here at home. Today’s cleaning jag showed me I possess not one, not two, but three hammers! I’m not sure this happened, but meanwhile I have zero nails. I’m sure everything will be fine.
… vanquish Cord Hell
All these cords for things that need to be charged or electrified … I am not a luddite! I enjoy many modern-day technological conveniences! But Cord Hell is a place. And that place is real. One day you’re connecting your phone cord to an extension cord and the next day, you’re in Cord Hell! Vanquish it and find peace. I recommend a) getting rid of everything you literally do not need; b) twisty-ties.
… forget to eat lunch
I don’t like people who chirp, “Why, I just got so busy I forgot to eat lunch!” It’s annoying, right? Yes, but it happened to me today. I was so focused on — and so soulfully enjoying — organizing and deep-cleaning my house, I stopped for nary a snack.
I wanted an opening, I wanted a “new view.” Item by item, book by book, shelf by shelf, I’m making one right where I am. Next up: that red wall.
Speaking of updates, I owe you a few! I have breaking news regarding Philip Larkin; this Nick person I’ve mentioned a few times; extremely cool things happening with the magazine, and more.
Don’t miss a post! Who knows? Maybe I’ll get another hammer.
Jennifer R.
I can relate to all of the above….And we have at least 6 hammers here, and when you want nails let me know. De-cluttering for our life style move, we found at least 10 boxes of nails. I for one can’t wait for your updates.
Rita S
What a cliff hanger, nor fair. It’s like a book. From Grant Wood Country.
Susan
Ooh! Tantalizing tidbit to come! Intriguing!
Jennifer
Mary, whatever happened to/with Mail Room Guy? I’m still dying to know. 🙂
Terry
Well we may be moving! So spring cleaning brings on a whole new meaning, when you down size as you spring lean! Can’t wait to hear the rest of your spring cleaning saga!
Wilma Bland
My pen cups tend to be mugs I can’t part with. Case in point is a well loved, chipped Far Side Velcros extra large coffee mug. When I get to the time of year for cleaning, I simply take the pens, markers, seam rippers (part of my ever growing collection last count was 26) , look for money and jewels and Bernina foot screws and toss everything else before I stick the mug in the dishwasher.
Caroline Nelson
I’m living vicariously through you Mary!
Daisy
My aunt’s use to say ” you can tell when Dianne is cleaning because all of the furniture is on t porch ” . Loved the smell and cleaness of everything.
Cathy
You are cracking me up!!! I have been in that cleaning kind of mode before and need to be again!!! Looking forward to the news and in the mantime, loving your posts!!!
Nancy
I’m lucky enough to have my own toolbox, with wheels and everything! But I only have one hammer. My little one walked away one day and never came home.
I too am looking forward to the coming updates.
Nancy Pederson
I’m lucky enough to have my own toolbox, with wheels and everything! But I only have one hammer. My little one walked away one day and never came home.
I too am looking forward to the coming updates.
Jan
I love spring cleaning! And Autumn cleaning, getting ready for the holidays. Windows, curtains, pillows, junque drawers, linen cabinets, oh yeah. Feels so good when it’s done! Hugs from Sacramento.
Kathlene
There are different hammers for different uses. Are they different kinds of hammers?