5 peace-giving kitchen tips
We’ve all heard it said that the kitchen is the heart of the home, so therefore a cluttered kitchen is definitely a peace-robber. The morning after we had our soup boil-over incident, I was not loving the scene. Crusted over soup was on the stove top, and a soup pot was in the sink. This occasionally happens, but getting it all done ahead of time is where it’s at for me, so I can wake up and be met with a blank slate.
Here are my five peace-giving kitchen tips:
I love something fresh next to my sink. This doesn’t have to mean buying fresh flowers. I typically use whatever I have in my yard. Boxwood sprigs for the win!
2. Wipe down the counters and keep the minimum out. This one is huge. Not only is it visually appealing, but it allows for you to use your surfaces without having to move items. “Less is more” is true for the counter tops!
3. Give cabinet fronts and appliances a quick glance. Wipe them down and take care of any drips or drops that may have occurred throughout the day. It’s so much easier to do this as it happens, rather than let them get really crusted.
4. Do all dishes the night before, run the dishwasher, and end with a clean draped towel. A fresh new hand towel everyday is not only a hygienic practice, but it is a hospitable one as well. Drape it over the sink or on the dishwasher handle! I reserve a set of crisp, white-striped towels for drying hands. I just love the classic look!
5. Speaking of the sink, how are things going underneath? This can be an area in the home that is much like a black hole. In other words, once something goes in, it may never be seen again. Take everything out and sort through duplicates and throw away any trash. Keep only what is used and store the rest in a back-stock area of the home. I keep back-stock in the laundry room. Keeping this space to a minimum is life-giving. Under my sink, I keep only a roll of paper towels for emergencies (usually pet related), a lazy suzan with soap, counter spray and brushes, as well as a clear container for dishwasher tablets. That is all I need and it stays tidy.
Waking up to a tidy kitchen sets the tone for my whole day! I challenge you to do what is necessary the night before to re-set this heart of the home and let the calm begin. Use it as a time of prayer or reflection. Turn on some worship music and enjoy this time. If you have helpers, crank the dance tunes and have some fun!
May peace abide in your heart and home,
Wendy