JenniferDyer.net

by Jennifer Dyer

Rachel discovered a new hobby over the Christmas break–Windex. Often my shadow when she is home, Rachel watched with bright eyes as I pulled out the bottle of Windex and a few rags. She grabbed the rags from my hands and ran ahead to the bathroom. When I made it in there, she pointed to the mirror, indicating I should get with the spraying.

When the liquid hit the mirror, she squealed and jumped, her giggles radiating warmth through the house.

Rag in hand, Rachel wiped and wiped. Then she grabbed the bottle and sprayed some more, squealing all over again.

Half a bottle of Windex later, the bathroom needed airing. I led her to the other bathrooms and mirrors, showing her how to wipe them down. The child acted as if she had hit a huge jackpot in Vegas.

The conservative side of me worried. She is using the Windex too fast. The house smells really strong. She might spray something that will get too wet, like the wallpaper or carpet.

Then I told my inner grump to take a break. I hate that wallpaper, the carpet might benefit from a little Windex, and as far as hobbies go, Windex cleaning is a great one, even a life skill that will benefit her in the future.

So, three bottles later in that many days, I am glad she has a new fascination. It’s way, way better than dumping toys out of drawers and boxes, which we lived through for about 7 years. I don’t know how long this one will last, but it’s fun to watch her delight. My mirrors have never been cleaner.

Wow. I wish I thought of cleaning like that.