My Satisfaction In Cleaning

My hubby was working so I took advantage and decided to clean the bathroom. Usually he does most of it because of cleaning agents, even though we use a green product.

COPD and I do disagree quite often. Physically it reminds me of what I can’t do, even though it does allow me some quiet things, such as writing this paper. My biggest battle with COPD is not willing to lose my independence with life and things that I do, and sometimes things I don’t want to do.

Why I enjoy cleaning

There is so much satisfaction in cleaning, especially the bathroom. It almost felt like the old days, when I could clean the whole house in just a couple of hours. Cleaning the bathroom actually took 4 hours, with 3 breaks. I had to change my way of doing things because when doing the floor, I had to use a mop instead of getting on hands and knees which I so much prefer. When my hubby got home he had to finish putting some things back where they belong. I also saved the bathtub/shower. I had to quit because of coughing spells and a tight chest. I also got back spasms and so tired.

Even though I struggled, and there were sweat and tears, I succeeded. I couldn’t do it all. I couldn’t do it the way I prefer to do, but I succeeded. It looks and smells so clean. I know that it’s done corner to corner. Sure, I can’t count that bathtub, but it’s ok, I did wipe around faucets, ledges, and edges.

This weekend I’m going to finish a couple of craft projects and pack some of my craft supplies to make room for photo albums. I have all my mom’s photo albums and will be scanning them and then giving to my brothers. I have photo projects that I am going to do for my kids and my brothers, as well as their families for Christmas. It’s going to be wonderful, but I need the energy and "sticktoitness" to do this. "Sticktoitness" is another problem that I have, but that comes from letting my physical self become overwhelmed.

I have a problem with Sticktoitness

Stick-to-it-iveness is defined as: dogged perseverance, tenacity. This is a word that I use when I define to myself and what I need to do to continue doing what I started, even if it’s for a half hour or even a day. I would hope to do a couple of hours daily, scanning these family photos. And there are many albums. Sticktoitiveness, this is what I need from start to finish.

I have another word that I periodically use is befuddled. It is in the dictionary: utterly confused or puzzled, deeply perplexed. I can only remember this word when I need it or when talking with someone who is frustrated and can’t find a word to describe how they feel when coping with COPD or a loved one. This always came to me when taking care of my dad in his last days. He didn’t have COPD, he had other health issues. Yet, this word continues to help me and others.

And to think this was a story about cleaning the bathroom. It looks like it turned into one about cleaning my thoughts and finding ways to accept limitations, and yet being able to accomplish the task at hand. Even if it takes longer than it should. I am holding onto my independence, by accepting what I can do, even if there are health factors that cause me to slow down or even ask for help. You see, COPD has caused some change in my life, but it isn’t changing my spirit or tenacity 😊.

Breathe-easy!