16. Describe a memory about cleaning house when you were a child.
When I was maybe 10 years old, my mom said, "I would just drop dead if any of you kids cleaned the kitchen," meaning, drop dead from surprise at our thoughtfulness. So one day shortly thereafter while she was at work, I thoroughly cleaned the kitchen, and told her on the phone before she got back home, "You're going to drop dead," thinking that she would remember the reference! She didn't, and was a little surprised. Then I told her what I meant. I remember her being pleased, but not gratuitously so. I wish I could say that I made a habit of cleaning the whole kitchen after that, but I didn't. Though I tended to be pretty conscientious about my dishes and the counter after eating a snack or meal on my own.
Paul
Brooklyn, NY, USA