if I’ve said it once….

This is the first post under the category of Tuesday Top Ten. Listed below are the ten things I say the most- all day, every day- as a mom. I have considered printing them out and making the children memorize them, so I could just say, “Number 4!” or “Number 10!”. Hmmm…maybe that could be a fun summer project once school is out!

Here you go, my Mama Says Top Ten:

10. I am not a trash can! (why do I get handed every wrapper, used container, and empty juice box when there is a trash can in plain sight?

9. You get what you get and you don’t pitch a fit.

8. It’s okay to be scared. You have to be scared first so you can be brave.

7. Sit down or get down. (For the love of all that is good, why do all toddlers stand up in chairs?)

6. Do not run in the house!! (This one is often followed by, “I told you not to run in the house!”)

5. Be sweet or be alone. (or, Come back when you’re happy!)

4. Hug it out!

3. Do you want my advice about handling the situation or did you just want me to know what’s going on? (This is my response to all tattling. Works like a charm!)

2. Did you brush your teeth/wash your hands/flush the toilet/put on underwear? (my children can be so gross….)

Tied for first are, of course:

1. I’m sorry and I love you. (The first because I am very, very human, and the second because at the end of the day, it’s what I need to remember and they need to know above all else.)

What are the lines you say over and over again? I’d love some new material!