By: Mica Kerkdijk

Mommy used to tell us all the time that her dream was to have our home run like a hotel. Well, that's been fulfilled, somewhat, in my home, but that's because I feel like I'm the @#^*& chambermaid!

It's been a roller-coaster ride of emotions. And boy, you should see me on a roller-coaster ride (maybe one day I'll show it). I cry, I scream, I close my eyes to the present reality. But glad to say, nowadays, I've been happy. I realize that the most important step to a basically clutter-free home starts with a clutter-free mind, a change of attitude.

What are the 5 things you can do today to get your home clutter-free?

1. Clear the tables and counter tops. Our tables and counter tops are clutter magnets! Once a day, I ask my boys to just clear the coffee table in the living area.

2. Keep your kitchen sink shiny. We all have busy lives and it's so easy to dump everything in the kitchen sink. I make sure we rinse our glasses and stack them unobtrusively at one side or load them in the dishwasher (have you met my best friend?) This leaves the sink clear. A messy sink gives me that sinking feeling.

3. Simplest of them all, after using something, put it back in its home (or proper place). We try to have a home for everything. If we can't find a place, it is left at the catch-all drawer (which reminds,me I have to clean that out soon).

4. Throw out the trash! When left unattended, newspapers and old magazines pile up, old clothes remain in closets, or empty bottles in the garage. Well, stuff you don't need go either to the trash or go for recycling (but that's another topic). Things you don't need have to go. Period.

5. Whistle while you work! Just make sure you're in a good mood when you tidy up. This really makes a difference!

A somewhat clutter-free home keeps the Filipina mama happy. And when Mama is happy, everyone is happy!

Magazine

• Heart & Home