I’m part of the generation that rings Mum for advice on how to fix any spills or stains around the house. And I’m very lucky to have a mum who knows what to do. That’s why most of my friends didn’t believe me when I told them I was writing a book on household hints. It’s not that my house is dirty. They just knew I had very little knowledge in this area. Now, they can’t shut me up.
When I was growing up, Mum did show me how to wash up, hang out the washing and iron, but I rarely use those skills today. I take the phrase ‘wash and wear’ literally. For many years I’ve paid someone to clean the house, as much for domestic harmony as anything else. All the knowledge in this book is Shannon’s. I’m just the absorber and writer of the book.
This book came about through James Valentine and his radio program on 702 ABC Sydney. He heard the advice that spiders are deterred by lemons, which reminded him of all those old-fashioned handy hints. He asked listeners to ring in if they were having problems fixing a spill or stain around the house and then invited other listeners to give their solutions. One day Shannon rang in and answered every question. She became a regular guest on the program and has been helping listeners ever since.
I produce James’ show and many listeners would ring and ask, ‘Does Shannon have a book?’ Well, here it is!