AROUND THE HOUSE | #houserules

Years ago on a now-defunct blog, I posted about #houserules as inspired by an Ikea ad back in 2014.

A whole lot has changed in the time in between. Now that I'm in my new space, what are the new rules? I've only had one consistent, cardinal rule: treat people the way you want to be treated which is more of a character rule. This new space has just me and the dogs. The “kids” will come and go as the pandemic and provincial rules allow. I no longer really need "rules" as they are related to character development, I hope those that I had in place when they were growing up are so ingrained that they're not necessary.

I suppose I might need some "when you visit" guidelines, which may dip into the rules as they've always been:

MOONDANCE HOUSE RULES

The first one up is to: let the dogs out to do their business; fill their water and food bowls; fill and turns on the kettle. (Yes, designed to keep everyone sleeping and relaxing as long as possible.)

When you use the last of anything, replace it.

If you see something that needs doing, do it. (Example: drag out the hose and water the plants, refill the wood for the firepit, clean off the outdoor tables and chairs.)

If you need to use the dryer and it's full, fold everything then put your wet clothes in to dry. (Yes, the same as dormitory life.)

Clean out the tub after you've used it.

Remember to turn off the gas to the BBQ.

If you cook you don’t clean and vice versa.

The toilet seat is always to be in a closed position, unless in use.

Before you leave, strip your bed and put the dirty sheets in the proper bin in the laundry room. Towels, too. (I’ll fold them between visits but likely you’ll have to make up your bed upon your return.)

Dogs eat DOG food, not people food. (Unless it's carrots, they can eat carrots.)

No dishes in the sink, they go in the dishwasher. If the dishwasher is full of clean dishes, put them away then put in your dirty contribution.

Return ANY vehicle with gas in the tank (at least 1/2 full), with the seat in the proper position, with the volume down, and on the right station. And keys returned to their proper place.

Use coasters.

Nothing wet is to be left on the kitchen island - it will ruin the wood.

Put glassware away in the cupboard upside down.

Toilet paper comes over the top and the roll must be replaced in the same manner when empty.

If it’s wet outside, wipe the dogs' paws when you let them in the house via the back door. Keep the gate closed and them on the tile, not the hardwood.

From a place of pure joy and trust, we all sing in the shower. Similarly, we all suffer through every note - no one can complain about the other!

Hang the outdoor towels over a railing or chair to dry, never leave in a clump.

Keep the beach at the beach, brush off as much sand as you can.

If you let the dogs in the water, wash them off before they're let in the house.

Return equipment (kayak, SUP board, snowshoes, fishing poles, water rafting tubes, etc.) to their proper home after use. Report any damage immediately so it can be fixed prior to the next use. 

A lot of common sense, but I find it best to be clear about my expectations for everyone to be on the same page.

What "rules" do you have in your house? How many have changed along the way?