Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Women and Work. Job #4

Job # 4  Cleaning Lady

How could we possibly make ends meet?  Three children and one working parent was not cutting it.  Then the bright idea.

Situations Wanted:
Cleaning lady available. Honest. Dependable. $7 an hour. Call 555-5555.

  I was not only my own boss, but I set my own hours and screened my jobs as well.  If someone was impossible to work for, I could just move on.  Before I knew it, I was turning down jobs.

One of the most meticulous of clients was a dentist and her podiatrist husband who considered me their maid even though I only worked for them one day out of the week.  I did everything for them.  I changed their bed linens, washed the dishes, did the laundry, scrubbed their floors on my hands and knees, and whipped their huge 9 room home into shape in just 6 hours time.  They very sweetly expected perfection , and they were not willing to let me go that easy when I revealed to them that I'd be leaving because I needed to once again be home with my baby.  They lured me into staying for a time, by adding a new playpen and baby accessories to their decor and it worked for a while, but soon  I had to graciously depart, but not before training another girl to be my clone. 


 About a year later, I was back with them but this time with a much larger salary.  Cleaning ladies were bringing in over $10 an hour.  I latched onto a few good paying jobs, sometimes dragging  kids, matchbox cars, books and cowboys and indians along.  
 

To Be Continued.....

6 comments:

  1. Good Morning Bobbi, Sounds like you were a top notch employee and one that folks were not willing to let go of easily.

    I hope you are having a good day and that Gracie continues to improve daily.

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  2. Bobbi your work ethics and your good attitude made you a very valuable employee. I believe everything we do in life prepares us for something better.
    Hugs to you and Gracie,
    Madi and Mom

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  3. No wonder they didn't want to lose you! As I've said before, you are one hard working lady! And honest and trust worthy....

    My Mom used to clean houses some when we were growing up.....

    So I know first hand how hard you worked and how demanding some people can be!

    As I said last time, I'm so enjoying learning more about your life!
    Hugs,
    Jenni

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  4. Funny, at this momment I am contemplating cleaning vacation homes here on the weekend. Just found out about this job today.

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  5. cleaning is hard work! seems like you did great with it though and kudos to you for bringing the kids along too while you cleaned!

    betty

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  6. What a feather in your cap to have the employers change some of their house to keep you there! I have a few friends that have chosen to clean houses, too, for the reasons you listed - - - mainly the flexibility of it all.

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