Martina,

In my first marriage, my OCD was out of control because I was so anxious...I cooked and cleaned with a gusto! Then I let everything fall apart. Fast forward to now: I have about 7,000 sq ft. to keep clean.....and instead of hiring a housekeeper, I do it. Partly because I'm really weird about wanting it done a certain way (whoa...I didn't realize I'd used a bad word until I saw the astericks....hm...edited it), and partly because BF and I are paranoid...a lot of celebs live out in this rural area, but the townspeople really don't seem to like any of "us", and I'm scared to hire someone =P I try really hard to go out of my way to talk to people, but mainly they just think we're rich, stupid and crazy (okay, maybe true on the crazy! Hah!)

(which I realize is expensive, but it may be worth it for your sanity! Really! If that's not an option, I'd also ask a very good friend to help you whip your house into shape....I have the most amazing best friend in FL who would fly up for a week JUST to help me clean because I was overwhelmed when I first got here. Just tell them you really need some help with it and it's just stressing you out. I'm sure your GF's will help! Make it a party....make some nice drinks, put some music on, kick the hubby out for the night...)

Anyway dear, I've got a system going where I will clean with abandon when I'm "Up" with BPD and when I'm down, I don't (and I don't feel guilty about it....because the house is clean when I'm feeling well).

I see you have a kiddie (aw!), so I'm sure your time is limited.

When I moved into my "new life", my friend J (a very sophisticated lady about 30 years my senior) really sat me down and told me what kind of "help" I needed to hire....she stressed that I was NOT to cook or clean! lol! I <3 her attitude about it all...but see, I just enjoy that "nurturing" with cleaning and cooking.

I doubt any of this will help, but the friend route can be so soothing. Especially a friend who doesn't judge you....that you guys can giggle when you find something grossy to clean! Please let me know how it's going....I can offer my cleaning ipod playlists! lol.

I also have an office of my own that I let get absolutely destroyed...and I tell the BF not to utter a word. Close the door if you don't want to look at it. =D