We stood at the sink at Aunt Nadine's house, washing up the dinner dishes. I was washing, Nadine drying and Mom T set at the kitchen table. We were laughing and talking, enjoying each other's company. I can remember a time when dishwashers were not a part of our lives, washing dishes three times a day or more was just a given. Not a bad thing, there were many problems that were solved right there at the kitchen sink. I can remember my Mom and her Mother taking forever washing the dishes, I would help a little with clearing the table so I was there for part of the conversation. Their voices would go up and down, from audible to barely heard- discussing everything from politics to who wore summer white after Labor Day...
it's a southern thing.
Clotheslines too, they are gone from yards, even Grandmas have dryers. Once a Mother/daughter chore that gave the chance for serious talks as Mom gathered and folded the clothes and I helped with the clothespin bag. Sad really, gone forever are those bonding times when hot sudsy water or fresh folded laundry meant you were loved.
Oh yes....I so thank you for evoking memories of this....you are absolutely right...it was sometimes the best part of the day....washing dishes, talking and trying to solve the problems of the world and backyard clotheslines....wonderful memories indeed!!
ReplyDeleteI do indeed remember helping Mom with dishes and laundry. The old fashion way. Dish pan full of soapy water and a clothesline in the yard. How sweet were those days.
ReplyDeleteI don't miss washing dishes by hand, my brother and sister and I did our share, but I so miss the clothesline! I still will have The Hubby sometimes put one up just to dry my clothes in the summer. I love the look and the smell of the freshness they get.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful reminder of days gone by....
ReplyDeleteYou are so right about time spent washing dishes. My mom would wash and I would dry. My chore throughout childhood. I still have a clothesline and I love it.
ReplyDeleteWashing dishes was a huge part of the holidays at my Aunt's house. She had 8 kids, so when the holidays rolled around, everyone gathered at her house and it was always full! We never used paper plates back then, either. I have a dishwasher that hasn't been used in probably 30 years. I never liked it. I still prefer doing them the old fashioned way.
ReplyDeleteThe things we lose in the name of progress or convience. Thanks for the memories!!
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