Proton Vacuum Pack

Mark has the coolest vacuum cleaner ever. That is all.

...well, I guess there is a little more to it: I really enjoyed doing the vacuuming. And not just because I spent the whole time making rocket noises with my mouth and pretending I was flying a jetpack, though that did help. But mostly it's because I'm learning to really enjoy cleaning. There's something satisfying about it that I've recently begun to cultivate.

Partly there is the sense of a job well-done. There's also an aesthetic sense to it, of course. Being able to look at a clean counter or a clean rug is pleasant. But most of all, I enjoy the sense of efficiency. The best part about a clean counter is that it's now easier to prepare food because of the clear space. The best part about a clean floor is that it's easier to exercise on because there isn't as much grit getting in the way (mainly pine needles). I like setting up recycling boxes so that it's easy and convenient to recycle, and so on.

Fundamentally, this is a low-IQ form of engineering (though people with high IQs can an do apply them to the same problems). That is, these are all little ways to make life easier and more efficient. The mental challenge and accomplishment I get from overcoming this problems is enjoyable.

To wax pretentious about it, cleaning is now a part of my meditations. It's a really simple, low-threshold-to-entry way of feeling good about my abilities, even if it's just doing the dishes.