A Little Common Sense from Mrs. Dunwoody

"All of us carry in our hearts and minds the image of our ideal home, realized or not. It is a place where we feel we belong, a rightness, at-homeness, a knitting together of self and world...as Dear Mother used to say, "Home is the place where you can restore your mind, body, and soul."

We often take our home for granted. But when we steep ourselves in our home, a deep sense of place begins to emerge...Our homes will only be generous and nurturing as the effort we invest in them. 

All family members will carry the atmosphere we create in our homes for the rest of their lives."

A RECIPE FOR A HAPPY HOME

Half a cup of friendship, and a cup of thoughtfulness, creamed together with a pinch of powered tenderness, very lightly beaten in a bowl of loyalty with a cup of faith, one of hope, and one of charity. Be sure to add a spoonful of gaiety that sings, also the ability to laugh at the little things. Moisten with sudden tears of heartfelt sympathy, bake in good-natured oven and serve repeatedly. 

"It is my belief that a meaningful day has its roots firmly established in routine. I have found that is I rise early and give my day to God in prayer, I am assured of an orderly and well-managed home.The importance of rising early cannot be emphasized enough. Usually the quietest portion of the day, this time alone is essential for ordering activities and collecting one's thoughts. It can become a treasured retreat of serenity that prepares and equips one for whatever the day may hold."

"A place for everything, and everything in its place." Well and truly, there is a time for certain duties, and the home keeper must see that there is no infringement of the laws that are laid down for the household. Children cannot too soon be taught the importance of order, neatness, and economy. An ill-governed household, where there is neither system, order, neatness, nor frugality, is a bad school for children. If you set an example of carelessness, do not blame your children for following it."

To finished this post: 

A LITTLE COMMON SENSE 

"To keep you sanity and save time in the morning, set the breakfast table with dishes and silverware, coffeepot, etc, and nonperishable items the night before. Also, take the time to put the other items you will need for the next day (papers, clothes, and so on) in a place where you will be sure to find them upon arising."

I hope you enjoy reading these excerpts from "Mrs. Dunwoody's Excellent Instructions for Homekeeping."