12 Comments
User's avatar
Kress's avatar

Hey Girl- that was me, cleaning my teenage sons room for years…it made me happy and, yes, saved us fighting over laundry and dishes..so many people told me to stop, let him clean up after himself, but I chose to keep my own sanity and a clean house, and kept with my plan. Today, living on his own, Jack is fastidious about his apartment, cleans it daily and likes to have a nice organized home…I’m pretty sure I can take credit for that…and he still calls me to talk things out…win. Win!

Expand full comment
Simone Silverstein's avatar

I love hearing this. Thank you, Kress. In some instances, I'd vote for the tough love. In other instances (and us mama's know when), it doesn't serve anyone. I tried and when it didn't work, I switched gears. Thank you for writing!! ❤️

Expand full comment
Martin Gallauner's avatar

When I read: “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” I wondered if you now mess up the house together 😂

Expand full comment
Simone Silverstein's avatar

Haha! I like your take, Martin.

Expand full comment
kate's avatar

I had a mom who would sometimes sneak into my apartment in college(!) and tidy up while I was in class. while some people would be horrified at this, as an ADD survivor😉 I appreciated it so so much.

I love that you considered another way and it's working for both of you ❤️

Expand full comment
Simone Silverstein's avatar

That warms my heart, Kate. I'm happy hearing it felt good to you—that it was helpful. He seems to appreciate the help. Often he thanks me (not always, but he does :) I appreciate your comments. Always.

Expand full comment
Simone Feldman's avatar

I’m glad I am not the only mom cleaning up after my kid(s). Can we make a support group in the future if this backfires?! Haha I used the “lead by example” mindset. I’m hoping my youngest learns to wash dishes, keep tidy, vacuum and make beds by observing me do these things obsessively.

Spoiler: it miraculously worked with my oldest two kids, the oldest who…gasp… will be 29 on Friday! Sorry if that made you feel older. Aren’t we only 35? Oh wait that’s Taylor swift who I also only recently learned was actually born I 1989.

Have a fabulous week!!

Expand full comment
Simone Silverstein's avatar

A support group for people who didn't realize Taylor Swift was 35 and one for those who ruin their kids—yes! Happy Birthday to your 29-year-old. Each year is a milestone. And yes, I cannot believe you have a 29-year-old. A mom I know, who is our age, just had her 4th baby a few days ago. No judgement other than—the thought exhausts me. ❤️

Expand full comment
Sandra Yvonne's avatar

You were THE Winnie the Pooh? Oh, bother.

Can we get a video of your best Pooh impression?

Expand full comment
Simone Silverstein's avatar

I was THE Winnie the Pooh. I'll add your video request to my list (of most likely never to share :) Oh, bother! :)

Expand full comment
Sandra Yvonne's avatar

I hope you at least put that tidbit on all your resumes and LinkedIn profile, if you have one. You should absolutely be flexing that more often, everywhere, all the time.

lol fair enough!

Expand full comment
Simone Silverstein's avatar

Seriously. It's my claim to fame. No, bother, it happened 30 years ago :)

Expand full comment