Ironing

Tuesday is our Ironing Day. I suppose I really don't need a whole day devoted to this task. I have an electric iron, and most of our clothing is knit wear. Even so, it's my favorite day, because ironing is my favorite duty. I wouldn't mind hours of ironing. Today I'll be doing two shirts, the fabric for an upcoming sewing project and napkins. I don't really have to do any of it, but I enjoy it so much.

We'll also be gone to a day game of minor-league baseball for much of the day. The boys should be exhausted after an outing with grandparents and mom. I expect a nice nap from them both, and I'll get my time then. If not, then I'll get in my pleasurable duty in the late afternoon. The Vintner will work late today, and pick up his own supper on the way home. He appreciates one night a week where he decides the menu. Therefore, I'm freed up from my supper cooking for his meal. As much as I love cooking, too, I defer to his comfort. I'll have a chance to replace one pleasure for another then. Even if I get my ironing done before then, I still have needlework to do. I may even get time to start that sewing project, of which I'll be ironing the fabric today. Such is the joy of our Tuesdays at the Cottage.

Washing and Wandering

On Monday, we have much washing to do. Since we have had so much spring rain, we haven't been able to hang our laundry out in a few days. It's piled up, and there's sunshine all day. While I could spend the whole morning catching us up, we have a therapy appointment for the boys. Instead, I'll spend that time driving all around, out and about. Then, there's tidying up and organizing after the weekend - the other Monday duty. Perhaps I'll get a break and catch my breath as the boys nap this afternoon.

Worship and Family

Today is our Family Day at the cottage. It's the day for worship, family and charity needlework. Other than the most basic work, preparing meals, there's no work today. It's time for silence.

Cleaning Day and Morning Calls

Friday is Cleaning Day at the Cottage Vineyard. In addition, we also pay (or host) our Morning Calls. Of course, we don't use such an old-fashioned term outside this blog, but it's the same practice. It's a social day, as well as cleaning up to get ready for the weekend. We'll also have time to get ready for Saturday's baking. It's a busy day, and occasionally I have additional shopping, if the outing takes us to a convenient location. I don't do all the shopping on Thursday, just because it's Thursday. I consolidate trips, to save time and fuel.

Cleaning is not what it once was, before children. Jane Austen said it best in "Persuasion": "A lady, without a family, was the very best preserver of furniture in the world." Now that I have two small boys, my furniture, and home, are not quite kept in the standard to which they were formerly. Perhaps, this blog will be just the impetus I need to return to my former ways.

Our social schedule easily removes two, or more, hours available from other tasks. When considering the other every day activities, Friday is easily one of the busiest days of the week. It's also going to be a test as to how much more organization can add to the productivity.

Shopping Day

Thursday is Shopping Day at the Cottage Vineyard. Today is the day for out-and-about errands, and not too much time at the cottage. The best part is returning home, and seeing what a beautiful home it is. From the inside, I sometimes forget how fortunate I am. When I see it from the outside, I remember my blessings.