How To Put the "Happy" in Homemaker!
One thing that we all share in common is that we all have dwelling places and these dwelling places all need to be cleaned. Notice I didn't say house because there are many other places that we can reside other than a house. You could be in a small rental apartment, a trailer, or even just a "room" in someone else's house. The goal that we all should have is to make that dwelling place a home. When I started this little blog I wrote a poem about the difference between a house and a home and I summed it up by saying, "a house is built with brick and stone, it's the love inside that makes a home." All a house needs to make it a home is love.

Because God is so very good he has blessed us with these "homes." But, and it's a big BUT, along with any blessing comes responsiblity. Yes, there is that word again! We have to show God how grateful we are and how responsible we can be in caring for our homes. Every little nook and cranny in our homes is God's blessing to us and it is up to us whether or not we choose to honor that blessing.

I think the most important thing you can do to put the "happy" in homemaking is to check your attitude. You are probably saying, "UGH" right about now! I know, I know, this is something that I wrestle with everyday. But, I am here to tell you what an amazing difference a change in attitude will make. If you try to go about your chores with the attitude that you are doing it "unto the Lord" a wonderful transformation starts to take place. No longer will it feel like drudgery but instead become a loving act of service to him.

I don't think many of us like to scrub toilets or clean the oven, BUT . . . what if we have a heart change?? Instead of just doing the very minimal amount of work with a scowl on your face why not try to make that toilet shine along with your smiling face? Don't let ANYBODY ever tell you that you are doing meaningless, mindless work. NO! You are doing the most important work in the world, you are caring for the blessings that the Lord has given you. You are caring for you home and family. You are making a difference for ALL ETERNITY!! How exciting is that??

I wanted to share with you just a few things that I have found very helpful through my years as a homemaker. I think the thing that has helped me the very most is what I do before I put my head on the pillow at night. I always make a quick run through of the house and try to put things back in their place. I make sure there are no dishes in the sink, the dishwasher is ready to go, breakfast table set, along with my menu for the next day. I make a "to do" list and go over it carefully so I can plan out my day. Clothes picked out, bookbags by door, lunches packed, etc.. I know it sounds like a lot of work but in reality it is only taking a few extra minutes and those few extra minutes are certainly worth it in order to obtain an orderly home and good "heart" attitude. I can't tell you what a difference this will make. It is so NICE to come downstairs in the morning and not see a mess, but come down and see things in order. I feel so much more ready to start my day this way. Again, we are talking about attitude. When I come downstairs and see things neat and tidy my attitude is automatically better and my desire to keep my home that way is increased. I always find my day is much more productive when I take those few minutes the previous evening to "spruce up" a bit.

If you are feeling frazzled, overwhelmed, and exhausted try these ideas and I really think you will be amazed at the difference. Remember: we need to always think about who we are doing this very, very important work for and also that we need to do it to the very best of our ability "as unto the Lord." Who's ready for a "heart check!" Let the mopping begin!!

Graphic courtesy of AllPosters