Things I've Learned

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Here's another set of Things I've Learned.  Some of these I continue to learn the hard way.

1.  Don't buy mixed-flavor Jelly Belly jelly beans.  As good as most of them are, it's just not worth accidentally putting a "buttered popcorn" bean in your mouth.  Bleh.
2.  It's worth it to buy good sheets.  You can get them on sale - I love TJMaxx/Marshall's for sheets, but get the highest thread-count you can afford. 
3.  You should delete any email you write when angry or frustrated.  Take a walk, come back, and try again.
4.  It's okay to bend the rules about treats when the ice cream truck is on your street.
5.  It's always better to be overdressed than underdressed.  You never want to be "that guy/girl".  You know, the one in jeans and flannel at a fancy restaurant.  Don't let that be you. 
6.  This is more of a vow than a lesson learned, although it has proved to be worthwhile so far.  I promise not to answer my kids' questions with "because I said so".  I will do my best to answer honestly and thoughtfully.  I believe that if they understand the why behind a rule, they'll be more likely to follow it. 
7.  It's okay to buy the generic versions of the following items:  medications, sugar/baking supplies, baby wipes, organic foods (if your store carries its own organic line)
8.  It's worth it to buy the name-brand versions of other things, such as:  toilet paper, diapers, spaghetti sauce
9.  If you plan to bake something, make sure you take the butter out of the fridge as soon as you wake up.  Give it time to soften to room temperature.  If you forget, don't think you can just stick it in the microwave for a few seconds.  You'll always put it in a little too long and end up with melted butter. 
10. Check all the pockets before putting clothes in the washer.  Especially if you have a husband and sons.

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