All I Want for Mother's Day

Growing up, I remember Mother's Day or my mom's birthday would near, and I would ask her what she wanted. Without fail, she would reply, "I want a clean house!"

Of course she had to be kidding. No, what do you REALLY want?

All I want is a clean house, she would reiterate.

I couldn't believe it. She must just want me to save my money or something. She can have a clean house any time, right? This is a day for presents! I want to buy something. I want to wrap something. A clean house is so boring! So, I would go out and buy some frivolous present and be super excited for how much she was going to love it! It would be way better than a lame "clean house."

Now I'm a mom.

Now I understand.

All I want for Mother's Day is a clean house.

No.

Really.

Clean.

No toys.

No dishes.

No dirty clothes in my living room (I don't even know how they got there).

Opening resents is fun, but what is even better? A clean house that I can just relax in. I can't believe how much more relaxed and happy I am when my house is clean!

But, let's be realistic. I have four kids five and under. I heard the saying that cleaning your house with kids is like brushing your teeth while eating Oreos. Yup! But one day, when they are a bit older, I will be able to convince them that even better than another necklace or picture for my wall is a clean house! Right?