Meet modern house wife Jane Wilson

Today in our crafty series we meet Jane Wilson who manages the Melbourne branch of Fantastic Cleaners and is a blogger for Modern Housewives. 

Can you tell me a little bit about your grandmother and how she inspired you?

My grandmother was actually my hero. Her name was Agatha, but I never actually called her that, to me she was always grandma. I used to spend a lot of time with her when I was a child, because both my parents worked long hours, trying to provide a good home for me. Grandma was the one who always stayed with me, played with me, provided me with great books to read, drove me to school and waited for me when school was over. She taught me some of the most important lessons in my life, including how to make amazing cupcakes and how to pursue my dreams, no matter what anyone else says. I am who I am because of her, and I’ll be eternally grateful I had her. She passed away 8 years ago, unfortunately.

What are some important lessons that you have gained from listening from both your mother and your grandmother?

Except for making badass cupcakes? For once, they both taught me to be strong and independent, they always urged me to believe in myself more, and that I can achieve everything, as long as I believe and am willing to do the work. Another important lesson I learned through them is that great things require perseverance, patience and lots of love. When I was young, I always liked crafts, but pretty much sucked at them. I couldn’t draw or cut in a straight line even if my life depended on it. Even one teacher told me to just give up. My grandma told me to just forget what everyone tells me, concentrate on controlling my movements and try different ways until I find something that works for me. And so I did. And, of course, I got craftier over time. I didn’t make a career out of it, but it was a great experience.

Looking into the future what lessons would you like to pass on to your children?

Basically, everything my grandma and mom passed on to me, that I already mentioned. They were all valuable lessons, which helped me grow as a person and develop a successful company in the services field. Something that I would add from myself is, that kindness can really save the world. Nowadays we are so busy with our own lives, that we forget how many others are not as fortunate as us. And sometimes even the smallest act of kindness can mean the world to someone else. I’d love if my children could make the world a better place for others.

What do you like most about running your blog Modern Housewives?

The idea of Modern Housewives came to me a couple of years ago, at a moment, where I had a great job and a beautiful daughter, but I struggled to find the right balance between them. Mixing in my own interests in all of that seemed practically impossible. But then my already retired mum moved to Melbourne to be close to us, and thanks to her presence and help I was able to bring order to my house, my family, my career and my life. That’s what I like most about Modern Housewives – for me it’s the sign that everything was getting on the right track again.

What are a few of your favorite DIY home made cleaning products?

The lazy oven cleaner is definitely my all-time favourite. Both my mother and my grandmother used it, and it’s so easy and saves so much effort, that it’s hard not to love it. All you need is some baking soda and some white vinegar. You spread the baking soda all over the oven, and then you spray it with a generous amount of vinegar. After that you just close the oven door and go to sleep. In the morning, all you must do is wipe the oven clean – all the dirt and burnt food are dissolved. As my grandma used to say – work smart, not hard.

Another one that comes to mind, is my grandma’s all-purpose cleaner, she used it on almost everything. For this one you have to mix 2 cups of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, 2-3 tablespoons of salt and some orange peels in a container, leave it for around 24 hours and then pour it in a spray bottle. It’s perfect for stoves, the sink, countertops, even floors.

What advice would you give to those who want to pursue a creative career?

Never give up. Never let anyone convince you to give up. There are always options, you just need to find the ones right for you. Always find new ways to surprise yourself. There will be obstacles, but it’s up to you if you’re going to let them fail you. You possess the power to change your world, use it.

If you could jump into a time machine what era would you visit and why?

I would actually love to see the future, like in some 100 years from now. I’m very curious if robots will overrule us. When it comes to the past, I would love to see the Industrial Revolution (around 1800). I’d like to see the beginning of the technologies we take for granted today. It would certainly make me appreciate them more.

Anything else you would like to add?

First, I would like to thank you for this lovely interview. It brought out many warm memories about my childhood and the great people in it. Second, I would like to advise all your readers to cherish the time they have with their close ones and enjoy every moment of it, because every second is unique and will never happen again.