CLEANING UP MY ACT

Not that this comes as a surprise to those lucky individuals who’ve lived with me in the past (and present) - I can’t keep a room/apartment clean to save my life. Let’s be clear: I have every intention of being a neat, clean, tidy and organized person, but when it comes to spacial upkeep – I got the short end of the broomstick.

Ask anyone, and most all the other areas of my life are organized. I’m a list maker, a budget babe, a punctual princess, a dependable darling, and one spectacular scheduler. Yes, all signs point to Kim keeping a clean house. That’s what leaves me so baffled! Baffled and buried in the mess of a bad habit. Don’t they make some sort of patch for those of us addicted to disarray? Or maybe a pill for the people allergic to arranging? Don’t you think Dr. Suess could have invented Spick 1 and Span 2 - the clean alter egos of Thing 1 and Thing 2? I’d hire them in a heartbeat ‘cause that machine the cat brought in scares the heck out of me. I’d rather the matching little people do the job. Besides, I’d be fostering the economy by hiring people instead of machines to do the work, right?

Alas, with no quick fix available, I’m on a quest to get my apartment in order. Last month I conquered my unhealthy food cravings and behaviors, and I think I’ve found a lifestyle we Sigetys can work with. Our new meatless meals will still take a little getting used to. But haven’t you heard? Meat is so last month! Vegetables are the new vogue. Just kidding – we’re simply limiting meat, not eliminating it. John’s face of disgust spoke volumes at the grocery store last night. I think it’ll be a while before we try tofu. haha

Anyway…Before I step onto my health soapbox again, it’s time I turn that soap box over, fill it with suds and see how I can clean up my act. This month’s goal is to learn to keep my living quarters clean – CONSISTENTLY!

Not that I can use this as an excuse, but I simply wasn’t born with this talent. I’ve always wanted to be one of those clean people with everything in order, but it’s time to wake up and smell the pledge – this goal’s gonna take some work.

So far I’m proud to say that while this post has been in the works, I’ve made my first steps toward apartment organization. My kitchen has been clean since Monday! Mom – did you just faint? I should have told you to sit down for that news. haha I have a few dishes to put in the dishwasher this afternoon, but other than that – CLEAN. No little people required! Sorry economy – this girl’s gonna do it herself! It’s taken lots of dedication, but keeping things picked up instead of letting them pile up is a much easier and less daunting game plan for me. I know that’s a no brainer for those of you skilled cleaners of the world, but today I speak for my fellow mess makers out there. There’s hope for us! I’m living proof that there’s no tower of dishes so high you can’t clean, no mountain of clothes so large you can’t level, and no clutter so cleverly scattered you can’t sort out.

So there’s one of Kim’s weaknesses in all its untidy glory. So much for a squeaky clean reputation. But actually, I’m kinda proud to reveal it. Why? Well, if all people ever did was talk about their strengths, we’d forever be feeling inadequate as we see the touted triumphs without the skinned knees or shortcomings of our friends. So, I’m not perfect. (Still, a little feigned surprise at this statement would be greatly appreciated. lol) But I’m striving to be better and, as long as I’m moving in the right the direction, it doesn’t matter where I am on the path to perfection. I just have to be moving towards that goal. And as for me, it looks like I’ll be making that journey with a toilet brush and Lysol in hand. Dirt beware…This Kim’s a-comin!

Now pop open a can of bubbly and let’s celebrate the start of a new and cleaner Kim! Uh - just please don’t open it over my freshly mopped floors.