Woman in Real Life

When we flip that calendar page to November, many of us switch to full holiday planning mode. Although I tend to be a rather last-minute Christmas shopper, I do like to think about the state of my house as soon as possible. Because it's not always pretty around here. In fact, if you were to swing by unannounced, there's a strong likelihood you'd note our general lack of housekeeping skills.

Just in case you are hopelessly overwhelmed in the housekeeping arena (ie. with too little time and all too much to do), I offer up some inspiration. I have gathered helpful homecaring tips from knowledgeable Canadian lifestyle and home decor bloggers who probably have cleaner homes than mine. But maybe not. I think most of us are just doing the best we can.

Maggie, who is also a professional chef, TV host and mother of twin boys, knows what it's like to keep a home for a busy family. She has developed a number of effective strategies for keeping a clean and organized home, and she was kind enough to answer my cleaning-related questions.

This became particularly important to me when I was pregnant with my first child over 12 years ago. I wanted to reduce my baby's exposure to toxins that could harm him. I have developed a pretty good understanding of natural and organic living over the years and I have sampled a great number of products. I want to share some of my findings with you through Woman in Real Life's new "Products We Love" series.

The hours sped on, my eager feet
Could not keep pace with my desire.
So much to do, so little time!
I could not let my body tire;
Yet, when the coming of the night
Blotted the garden from my sight,
And on the narrow, graveled walks
Between the guarding flower stalks
I heard your step: I was not through
With services I meant for you.