Add A Little Jazz to the Cleaning Routine

Hey guys,

I'm really stoked to tell you about something that has literally changed my life. Any of you have creative brains? It is such an amazing blessing to be creative. Our lives are richer and better for it. The world is our oyster and all of that. There are, however, some typical characteristics of creatives that can land us in hot water if we're not careful. Our minds jump around from one thing to the next. Our house might be messy because we can't be bogged down by cleaning routines. It's stifles us. We have a tendency to leave ends open, things undone. Because we found something else to do. Our beautiful creative spirit wants to be doing something fun!

Several years ago, I found Flylady. She's like this amazing magic fairy that teaches you how to be a grown-up and get your stuff together. Mostly by cleaning, but finances and nutrition are tucked in there too. Sometimes she's a drill sergeant, but always always always, she coaches with love. Some of our situations are serious, and some not so much. But she's known embarrassment and depression and overcome. I've been "in training" for years and her teachings have literally changed my life. I know how to focus on the task at hand (by using a timer). I get dressed first thing (and it's saved me from humiliation many times!). I know what to do when I totally lose control of the house. Hint, this is the best link ever of all time if you're a messy gal who's about to have company.

So, if you want to go the Flylday route, here's a few things to expect:
-a ton of emails a day. just do what they say. you don't have to read every single one. Even Flylady will tell you to simply delete if you are feeling overwhelmed.
-She's going to ask you to do some things that might seem illogical. Like polish your sink when your house is a wreck. Don't question it. Just do it, lady. She knows what she's talking about.
-Expect to be shocked at how together you feel if you do what she says. She is a Christian and her tips and training on running your household are biblical. The sense of peace is astounding when you walk in the way of discipline. That is the most boring and shocking sentence I've ever typed, but it's true.

So I made myself a few little printables to help me remember my Morning Routine and Evening Routine. Help yourself to them as well. I printed mine and framed them. Just use a black or white permanent marker and write down your specific routine. Just a cute way to train your mind and hands to do the same thing over and over. If you do it enough you'll be able to think, plan, and pray while you clean, then feel free to create guilt-free! Just click and save on the images. They are 5x7 inches.

This week we've talked a lot about living artfully, and sometimes it feels like some things (like cleaning) just can't be done artfully. But I've found that the peace that comes from having routines actually frees up your mind. Let's you be conscious of your surroundings. Let's you bless your family. And that's a beautiful thing.

Good luck, and let us know how it's working for you!