Our house was built in 1950 and had experienced various additions and renovations over the years before we purchased it 13 years ago. The kitchen is small, but functional. Not only do we not have a dishwasher, we don’t have hot water running to it. For a few years we did dishes by heating water in a large tea kettle on the stove and using it to fill the sink. Then my loving husband purchased an under-the-sink, small electric hot water heater. It holds a few gallons and is a blessing!
Housekeeping has never been real high on my priority list for the day. The boys and I were usually having fun learning, reading aloud, or going on field trips. Of course, being less than disciplined with housework, meant poor meal planning and that sometimes the dishes piled up a bit. As I’ve begun this journey toward simplicity and started enjoying my home more (and focused on making our home more homey), I’ve started spending more time in the kitchen. I’m pleased with the money we’re saving by not eating out, or eating as many convenience foods!
I had read in books and heard from friends how much they love going to bed with an empty, clean kitchen sink. I’ve been working harder at keeping up with the dishes all day long, and I must say, I love the feeling I get when I walk past the kitchen and don’t see any dirty dishes by the sink! I’m sure this little confession might seem strange to most of you — people have thought me a bit strange for years 
