Things I've recently learned...

• If you're making cookies but don't have a cookie sheet, use a muffin pan instead. The cookies turn out perfectly round and they puff up so you get a thicker cookie that's crispy on the bottom and sides and tender on the inside. Who knew?
• How to get rid of fruit flies? Put out a small bowl of cider vinegar with some drops of dishwashing liquid in it.
• Always strap the baby into his highchair (especially if the chair is close to something, oh say like a table), otherwise you'll look over from doing the dishes and see him doing the cha-cha on the tabletop.
• Using gum to hang a poster on the wall might, in fact, work, but trying to convince your mother that its a healthy alternative to swallowing it, does not.
• Instant coffee = instant heartburn, nausea, indigestion... (sing it with me)
• Unexpected gifts given to you "just because" are the best (thanks Mom!).
• Under the bed is not a good hiding spot for sexy-time stuff ("Look at all these cool lotions, Mom! Can I smell them? What is this thing?", "WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN MY ROOM? Ohmygod! Never mind that stuff, just GET OUT!")
• The strength of a migraine increases proportionately to the number of kids you have.
• The classic, tried-and-true response: Nod and smile, just noooddd and smiiiille...
• Learned this from an email: hydrogen peroxide can be used in place of bleach for just about anything -- cleaning, disinfecting, whitening (both clothes and teeth, but remember to mix with water when gargling); its safer, less smelly, and costs less (from the dollar store).
• Forgetting its Garbage Day is catastrophic.
• The self-checkouts at Walmart are awesome and fun... until the sensor has a problem with that huge box of tampons and the manager has to come sort it out while everyone waits. *blush*
• Just when you think your child(ren) cannot be any sweeter, smarter, amazing or funny... they will do something that reaffirms the incredible joy of being a parent.