Life With 4 Men- House Rule #1

Some discussions in the forums reminded me of my old "house rules." I got fed up one day about 5 years ago and decided to try posting written house rules about the house.

I found that if I talk to my men, no one listens. However, if I write it down and post it up with tape, it gets read and understood. Why is that? Do they really tune me out that much?

The first house rules were put up all at one time and were up for a few weeks or more. They then went in a collection on the side of the refrigerator where punishment was recorded. Occassionally, they went back into place as a reminder.

Remember as you read them that my poor hubby had to follow along to make them effective. I don't think the boys appreciated it when he failed.

After the first set of house rules, over the years, when I am at my whits end, I will type up my frustrations and post them in the appropriate area, requesting that all men sign it declaring it was read before I will take it down. It's a much more peaceful way to communicate and a lot less stress on me.

Of course, if anyone wants to have a friend over, it's great encouragement to push the others to get it executed so it can come down before a guest might see the document. A little encouragement never hurts.

Do tell me you are enjoying these and do not think I'm silly or stupid.

Here is House Rule #1 as follows. I will be glad to post another one every day until they are all up, but I'd appreciate some comments so I know that people are at least getting a laugh out of them.

Really, you must read House Rule #3--it makes me laugh every time. However, I may just be crazy for thinking they are funny. You will have to let me know. To live with 4 men, I have to find humor in odd ways. House Rule #1 is just a teaser--they do get better.

*****
This was posted on the door of 2 bedrooms.

HOUSE RULE #1

If Mom finds an article of clothing or anything else on the floor in this room, AND if the tops of any surface are not neatly organized, AND if she finds anything at all on the top of your desk lid, then the inhabitants of this room will loose their television privileges for one week.

Optional: Dusting and vacuuming once a week would be nice. Making the bed would be nice too. You may want to practice these because once Rule #1 is satisfactorily completed, more rules may follow.

Record Enforcement here:
*************
This was posted on the door of the 3rd bedroom

HOUSE RULE #1

Mom and Dad will attempt to keep their bed made. No one is to watch television in this room, thereby messing up their bed and ruining their quilt without the permission of said adult.

Record Enforcement here: