Normal? I guess so.

Normalcy returns with a leaky sink and a huge pile of laundry. Just goes to show that while a mission trip can change your perspective and faith… it can’t change your housework!  Above is the coffee and mug I brought back for Josh as a special treat for going without food for such a long time (kidding… he had frozen pizzas).  The morning routine… coffee, mugs, and packed lunches — only now with a Mexican flare.

I baked two loaves of bulgur wheat bread yesterday. The savory loaf contained olives, bacon, sun dried tomatoes, and cheddar cheese. The sweet loaf contained honey, cinnamon, and raisins. While attempting to clean up the dishes, I noticed that my feet (I was wearing flip flops) were soaked. I looked down and discovered that the lower part of the cabinets under the sink had become a waterfall. Of course, these things always happen when the husband is at work or deployed. You know? I sopped up the water with the towels I’d set out to use on the dogs after bathing them (something that I never got to) and emptied the cabinets. Here is the confession: you would not believe how many horrible chemicals I had hidden under my sink. Basically, the only cleaning products I use are vinegar, Basic H, lye soap, Borax, baking soda, and (occasionally) dish detergent. How did I end up with all that mess of toxic chemicals?

I’ve taken a picture to hold myself accountable — so that you’ll hold me accountable. Scout’s honor: I will clean it all out and post pictures as proof.

So here is the question: what is lurking under your sink? What green cleaning tips do you have for those of us who hoard a plethora of mysterious all-purpose, multi-surface, mold/mildew cleaners in our homes?