Whistle While You Work

 

My approach to housework is pretty much the same as everybody else's. When the mess reaches critical mass, I do something about it.

So last week when Ryanne wanted to earn money to buy a pair of shoes, I knew I could come up with something for her. She arrived Thursday afternoon, looked over the kitchen and asked me how much I would pay her to clean the refrigerator. My refrigerator is always clean and empty, so I told her no-go there. After a little consideration, she asked what I would pay her to clean the kitchen. We had a deal.

I was banished to the living room to read while she started buzzing away. I was fairly impressed by the cleaning like noises I heard, but she is only eleven, so I didn't have much in the way of expectations. I was pleasantly surprised. She got the counter stains off that I usually have to take cleansing powder to. Things were organized and put away. Unfortunately, the dishes in the dishwasher were dirty, so there wasn't much she could do about that except add to them.

I was very satisfied with the work, and paid her accordingly.

Now I realize the unintended consequences. If the kitchen isn't clean every time she comes over, she is going to think she has a steady job.

Nancy Sherer

 

 


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