Defining "Your Clean"

Okay, I know I have been talking a lot of about housecleaning lately, but let's be honest.  If there is no housecleaning, there is no crafting (that's just my rule).  So let's get the cleaning out of the way first.  I will actually be able to CRAFT today because I am ON TRACK this week.  So that brings me to an interesting topic.  How do you define clean in your own home?

I have two children under the age of three.  So there is no way on earth that my house will look like a magazine or be perfect at all times.  For me, following the Flylady plan is about being organized and not living in CHAOS (Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome).  I know that at any given time if someone pops by I won't be completely embarrassed by my house.  BUT this doesn't mean my house will be perfect by any means.

This was my house as of about 9:30 this morning

 One area I really don't stress in is my kid's room.  We do ONE clean up in this room a day and that is at the end of the day.  I make sure sheets are clean, surfaces wiped and floors clean.  This is actually a good day...

 My kitchen table looks like this 24/7 but it would take me 30 seconds to clear it and put things where they go (cause it all has a home)

I don't know how my living room looks this good at 9:30.  It's another area that I have just said "it is what it is, there will be toys in here".  One thing I do is put toys back in the kid's bedroom throughout the day.  It feels like a losing battle most of the time, but it does help.

 The kitchen is really one area where I feel like I have won the battle!  The Flylady has transformed this kitchen.  Just putting all dirty dishes in the dishwasher and keeping my sink clean has made a 100% difference. The dishes on the counter are clean, btw :)

I have the crazy clean gene from my grandmother and it has taken me some time to realize that my house doesn't have to be perfect at all times in order for me to be a good housekeeper.  What it is really about is my house being organized, things having a place and not letting dust and grime get out of control.  There will be toys on the floor the majority of the time, things will look a little disheveled!  BUT, the point of all of this is to find balance in your life so your house doesn't overwhelm you and if you do get that last minute call from a friend, you don't have a complete freakout and stuff everything in a closet (including the dirty dishes).

So is your house driving you insane?  Do you want to spend less time cleaning and more time crafting (hehe)?  Then I highly recommend getting on Flylady and starting with those baby steps.  It takes a little effort in the beginning, but the rewards are awesome!  Like today I am already done with my chores so I am going to sew! Yay! And later I get to take my kiddos to the park :)  So find something that works, work it, and if you need help, just ask!