No Husband Left Behind
HIM & HER — Together (on the Same Page)
[Challenge]
Organizing Your Home
When was the last time you took a walk through your home looking to see how well each area serves its purpose? If not recently, consider making a “quick list” of what you would like to do within each room of the house. Remember, this is your home. It should be serving “your” needs all of the time.
[Purpose]
Each room should have a “primary” purpose (for example, the bedroom for “sleep”). Of course, every area within your home can have “other” desired uses. When organizing your home, consider what “main” reasons you would utilize each space. Everything within the space should somehow support what you “need” and “want” in that area.
Try to keep “living” space and “storage” space separate. Living space should include items like furniture, while storage space may contain “extra” light bulbs. This process of differentiating items for use now versus later can be separately easily between “room” and “closet”. Feel free to utilize all of the spaces you have available (attic, basement, garage, shed, etc.)
Once you have designated one room for “rest”, you will want to be strategic when placing your “favorite” most comfortable chair. Other important areas within your home should be set up for Bible reading, prayer, and worship. Your Bible should be quickly retrievable (not having to look for it). Your “prayer” area should probably be “quiet”. The “worship” space will probably contain your favorite Christian “music”.
[Layout]
All of your primary items (used daily) should be where “both” of you can locate them. Though you will likely place the pots and pans for cooking within the “kitchen” area, it will be liberating to agree upon “where” they will be stored (when not in use). Certain cabinets near the stove will be worth considering. Hanging them up is another option.
To enjoy your home considerably, you will want to have adequate spacing around all of the furniture. This will allow everyone “living” or “visiting” your home to be able to walk through without tripping or knocking things over. Of course, this is “your” home. So, place each item where you will be able to enjoy it the most.
When possible, keep similar items together. Books enjoy the company of other books on a bookcase. Music CDs enjoy being kept within view of the stereo. Clothing should be stored within the area where you get dressed (and will be expecting to find it). By the way, if you find too much “clutter”, take a moment to box up any “unused” items for storage. Marking the totes or boxes will allow you to retrieve it later on.
[Enjoyed]
Every room and every space should be seen as “yours” to enjoy “together”. You and the love of your life can change whatever you decide on. Once the areas are to your liking, remember to keep the supplies stocked. Dishwashing soap in the kitchen. Air freshener for the bathroom. And everything else either of you use.
The décor and artwork throughout your home should inspire both of you, if possible. Flowers “for” or “from” your spouse are to be displayed & enjoyed prominently (easily noticed). Maybe even consider buying something “new” just to spruce up the place (adding a dose of “freshness).
Honestly, “your” home must be a place where the two of you really feel “at home”. This “safe haven” should provide a place where you feel able to “let your hair down”, so to speak. You are welcomed to do whatever you two love birds enjoy. Just be certain to organize your home to “celebrate” life together. Maybe even our Awesome God will feel welcomed.
From one who forever remains…
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo
Christian Community for Married Men and Women — (Knights) & (Damsels)