I want to know something. When did the word “housewife” become a dirty word? Why are we made to feel inferior if we are ‘just a housewife’? First of all, being a housewife, or, as it is now called; SAHM (stay at home mom), is nothing short of one of the most difficult jobs out there. I don’t know what kind of delusional people imagine that it, in any way, ISN’T hard work, but they need to stay at home with their own brood for about two weeks and get a clue. I am really happy to be able to stay at home with my kids. Yes, it can be maddening. No, the work is never, EVER done. But, I get to see them grow up a little bit every day. There is no way to ever get that precious time back.
I have learned:
Housework is never done. Period. The laundry, dishes, and dusting will never, ever be completely done, at least not for more than 3 minutes. Also, floors will never stay clean. Ever.
You have to let some of it go. Some of the best advice my mom gave me a long time ago. I still struggle with it on a daily basis, but you have to come to the realization that dust/dirt never stops accumulating, nor do kid’s messes. I usually do my ‘deep’ cleaning when the kids are gone, so that I at least get to admire my work for a (very) little while.
If you have an unexpected guest, your house will inevitably look terrible. I had some family drop by one day and although I was really happy they stopped by, I was really ashamed that the laundry was everywhere, dirty dishes were in the sink, beds weren’t made,and I looked like absolute crap. After that, I joined Flylady.net and took some of her pointers to heart.
Housekeeping IS a job, without the paycheck. You’re a maid, a cook, a nurse, an economist, a valet, a mom, a wife, a friend, etc. all rolled into one being. Don’t let anyone ever make you feel ‘bad’ or guilty that you aren’t out working outside of the home. If we learn to live within our means, you’d be surprised at how little you really need, moneywise, to stay afloat.
Well, that’s all for now…I am off to assume my role as chef and prepare lunch!
My Little Country 
Amanda Panda, I love your blog! You and I are so on the same page. It’s nearly four in the morning and I couldn’t sleep and now I’m freaking awake cuz your blog cracks me up! You should send in your homesteading ideas/comments/misadventures into the paper…have you thought of that? You have always had talent for writing. Anyways, thanks for helping me pass these early am hours. Love and miss ya!
Your mother sent me the link to your blog. I agree 100%. When I fill out forms (usually at the docs office), I would always write CEO of the household for occupation. It made me feel very important. When I get time, I will read your blog archive. I love the pics.
I feel that I am doing the most important job that I could possibly be doing! To run a household properly, you have to wear many hats so to speak, and it’s something different every day. I could never be bored around here! I am trying to NOT write unless I have some supporting pictures to my entry. Worded entries with no pictures are just so boring to me…too bad I have so many of them! For a long time, my computer would not allow me to upload pics from my computer, but after I went wireless with my DSL router, I have not had that problem, so stay tuned…more photos are sure to be added!!! :0)
awesome blog..love it..im also a houseiwfe..and i cn completely relate to it 🙂