Definition of "Sherry Clean"

I guess I need to explain the term "Sherry Clean".  When we first arrived at camp in 2006, I implemented a pretty intense cleaning regiment.  Just wanted to make sure that the camp was as clean and tidy as it could possibly be.  The joke started out that there were two types of clean... clean and then there was "Sherry" clean.  By the end of the summer, the joke turned into a personal attack.  I must admit that I cried more in that first summer at the camp than I have in all my life put together.   My mind and heart were so torn.  How could I love this place and the ministry so much, but feel so defeated?  How could I have been so convinced that this was EXACTLY where God wanted our family, but feel such doubt in making the 5,000+ mile move across country.  How could I ever share this heartbreak with my family and friends?  What would they think of my weakness?  So...I handled the situation by not telling them.  Actually, they will hear about it for the first time if they read this entry.

Well, I made it through the first summer, but the wounds of my heart were still open and vulnerable.  I praise God that He gave me a quiet winter to heal.  I spent a lot of time thinking, praying, and studying.  I don't think I'd ever read my Bible as much!  I was searching for a way to "clean" my wounds, heal, and continue to serve others through the camp ministry... and my God did just that!

"Sherry Clean" is still a very common term around camp and known by anyone who has ever volunteered at the camp.  Each volunteer leaves with the certification of being " Sherry Clean" machines!

I know the camp will never be a 5 star resort, but it can sure be as clean as one.  Now, I must admit that this rule does not apply to my house.  It's never "Sherry" clean!  As I write this blog, I see rooms that are a bit dusty, cluttered, and in need of some "Sherry" clean attention.  Maybe later.

  I am thankful that I can now laugh and joke again about "Sherry Clean".  It's a term that means so much to me.  It reminds me of the rough road I traveled in the summer of 2006, but more importantly, it reminds me of how God cleaned it all up and made me a much stronger person.

Have you had your "Sherry Clean" moments?  Share those with me. 

Remember... God is your friend... so is Clorox!