How do you know.....

How do you know when your husband has been alone with the kids for too long while you've been gone away for business travel?

While having dinner, Rachel asked Jeff, "Daddy, how do you stay under water for a long time?" In the sweetest (but joking) manner possible Jeff replied, "Well, you tie a string around a brick and then tie it to your ankle....." It was at this point that I interrupted him. I have to admit, though, I laughed quite a bit at that one.

How do you know how quickly children pick things up?

On the way home from shopping today, I put in my Marc Anthony CD and cranked up the "I Need to Know" Song. After we were home, Anna was walking around the house singing, "I need to know. I need to know. Tell me, baby girl, cause I need to know."

How do you know when your family needs to leave someone's home?

We were invited to a pot luck dinner in honor of a friend's son who graduated from the high school and who has recently enlisted in the Navy. After dinner, Anna began to entertain the family dog. I thought he was playing with her when I saw her running around and giggling while the dog chased her. As it turned out, the dog was only interested in sniffing her butt and hunching her leg. Yep. That's how you tell it's time to pack up and head home.

How do you know that the apple really doesn't fall far from the tree?

Rachel got a chocolate chip cookie for dessert with her lunch today. Jeff asked Rachel if she would "share a small piece." Rachel pinched off the smallest piece she could and handed it to him. I'd like to take all of the credit for her response to his request. But, I believe Mr. Jeff has taunted them enough on that particular aspect that this was simply a case of "what goes around.....come around." But, I have to say I was particularly proud of my oldest daughter today. While no words were spoken, it brought up memories of the movie Steel Magnolias when Clairee stated, "Very good, Annelle (substitute Rachel)! You've spoken like a true smart-ass!" Almost brings a tear to her Mom's eye. I had to high-five her on that one.

How do you know how different each of your children really are?

Up until recently, Anna and Rachel shared a bedroom and used the other for toys and such. About a month ago, Anna asked to have her own room again. Now, they each want to decorate their room unique to their taste. Rachel settled on a Tinkerbell theme which I expected. She is my "princess" type of girl. Anna, on the other hand, wanted a space room complete with a ceiling fan with space rockets and a Wall-E pillow for her bed. Not exactly what I would've chosen but then again, she's always marched to the beat of her own little drum.

I'll post pictures after we are done with the renovation.

How do you know when you've pushed your spouse too far?

While walking through the toy section at Walmart, Jeff suggested that the girls should "take a look at this drum set." Of course, I gave him a look that could kill.