by Knick Knack

Created on: January 17, 2009

Housework is defined in the dictionary as, "the work of cleaning, cooking etc., to be done in housekeeping." Personally, I think the following should be added; "a term frowned upon by many!"

Generally, there is a lot of negative stigma associated to housework mainly because most people perceive it as hard work with not much reward. Well, your average housewife or househusband (we are living in the 21st Century so I feel it is only fair to add the latter), may beg to differ. Housework can in fact be a fun and therapeutic activity and it really works those muscles too! I mean it's not the most glamorous task. Have you ever had your partner walk in you while your arms stuck down a toilet giving it a good scrub? Hardly "inviting!" But for some there is a real sense of reward flopping on the sofa and taking a good look around, the spotless floor, polished surfaces and it feels great to know you can start using the washed glasses again having drunk juice out of a mug for the last week...or two!

Housework can also be used to vent built up anger. What better way to take out your frustration than give the oven a good, mean scrub. I once had a friend who used to think about her boss when she used to clean. It explained the random abuse I once heard her shout whilst mopping the floor! Something like, "yeah that'll teach you, how's this for assertive". It was erm...quite something!

I personally enjoy housework. There's nothing more gratifying than having a clean house in my opinion. Clean house, clear mind and of course less chance of getting mice. I have a phobia of mice you see. Living close to London I am always quite concerned that I'll soon come across some unwanted guests but so far so good. That's not to say that people who have mice have dirty houses!

I have had my fair share of unpleasant experiences though I must say. You do become immune to it over time I suppose, but then there are those odd unforgetable moments which are difficult to forget. Once I decided to clean up on a Sunday evening, ready for the working week, after a friend had just left. She had spent quite some time in the toilet after we had been for dinner so I was asking for it really. Unfortunately on departure mad'am had not quite checked to see if she had gotten rid of all the "evidence". Lets just say that occassion lefts its mark (excuse the pun!)

Overall I'd say that even though I enjoy keeping the house clean and trying new things in the kitchen, I wouldn't say no to a cleaner but I would have to put her/him on trial first I think. There's nothing more frustrating than having someone offer to help out only for you to watch them like a hawk and re-do the job in the end anyway!

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