Friday Five

I love my friend's Friday Five list every week and I've really wanted to give it a try.  But, alas, Thursday/Friday comes and I have nothing creative to share.  So here is my weak attempt at a Friday Five.  (Bren, any tips?)

As a pile of laundry (clean, not folded) looms behind me, I am inspired to share the housekeeping tasks I love to hate...or hate to love?  You know those chores you put off, then finally do, only to sit back and wonder why you waited so long.

1.  Laundry:  I like sorting the laundry, I'm not sure why.  And I love the smell of fresh, clean laundry...warm from the dryer.  Ahhh.  I get held up at the folding and putting away stage.  Ick.

2.  Vacuuming:  I did not realize how often you are supposed to vacuum high traffic areas (I think it's daily!?!).  Do any of you vacuum daily?  I like to vacuum, and it is a good kid chore.  I like the lines the vacuum leaves on the carpet, but that requires me to vacuum wall to wall, rather than just the traffic areas (that's when I get the kids to help, they aren't into lines, they just get it done).

3.  Grocery shopping:  I drag my feet and put off grocery shopping.  Part of that is because pre-shopping requires menu planning, pantry checking, etc.  If I am getting more than five items I try not to take any kids.  Thus, grocery shopping turns into a somewhat peaceful experience.  I like to go early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and sometimes I even bring my ipod so I can listen to my own tunes.  (It is a bit embarrassing when someone says something to me and I do the overly loud headphone answer...)  

4.  Making beds:  I cannot stand unmade beds.  It is generally the largest piece of furniture in the room, and oftentimes right in the middle of the room, so if that looks nice, you're in good shape.  I have pared down the boys beds (no top sheets) so they are easier to make.  Cade is a really good bed maker, and often helps his brothers get the job done.  I don't like actually changing the sheets-what a pain, and bunk beds are the absolute worst!  But, fresh sheets are pretty much the best thing ever-I guess you must go through the trial to get the reward.

5.  Mopping:  Our Minnesota and Texas homes both had light-colored floors...why, why, why would anyone put white floor in the kitchen?  It constantly requires sweeping/mopping.  Sure, the wet swiffer would help between real mopping, but it just isn't enough.  However, once done, I always sit down and wonder why I didn't do it sooner-it feels so good to walk in your bare feet on a clean floor.

I hope you all have a great weekend...having fun or doing chores (or maybe a little of both)!