When we were little I never understood why my mother insisted that the house be immaculate before we would head off on a trip. She would always be running around making sure every last thing was put away as we were all ready to head out the door. I always assumed it was a matter of what people would think should we all die and then perhaps after our funerals our friends would be for some reason be traipsing through our house. I always thought it was ridiculous on her part. Really, who cares?

Now 30 years later, days before heading off on a big trip, with a million things to do, I find myself cleaning out the pantry, the fridge and all my office files. I have officially become my mother. I don’t think I am doing it for the aforementioned reason. For me it’s the joy of returning to a house that is in order. It makes sense to me, but I think it makes my husband and kids wonder (and comment). Mom, I think I now know how you felt.