Some weeks, I struggle to decide what to write about.
Other weeks, there are so many note-worthy things that happen in my crazy life that I have a hard time narrowing them down to focus on just one subject. That’s where I’m at this week, so readers are getting a sampling of the many things on my mind.

First, a warning to all movie-goers. Our family does not take in many movies at the theater. I suppose that has to do with the age of our children.

Keeping all three of them quiet and sitting in their seats for anything more than fifteen minutes – even when there is all kind of action up on the big screen – is next to impossible.

We did, however, decide to mark Rylan’s fourth birthday by taking in a movie. Assuming all businesses accept debit cards or credit cards in this day-and-age, we erred in not grabbing cash before we left the house.

When we realized the theater only accepted cash, I went to a couple of nearby businesses – thinking I would purchase something and just write a check for a few dollars over the amount. I stopped at four businesses, but could only find one that would allow me to write the check for $10 over the amount.

Needless-to-say, the movie started without us. Lessons learned: not all businesses accept credit/debit cards and always take cash.

Second, a sigh of relief. One of the many wonderful features of the lot on which our home sits is the mature willow trees in the backyard. Not only do they provide ample shade, but they add to the view I enjoy daily from my kitchen window.

Unfortunately, one of the largest trees on our lot did not produce leaves this year. Even the lightest wind caused branches to crack and fall from the tree, causing a real mess on the lawn. It was obvious the tree was rotting and needed to come down.

We had three tree companies give us a quote, but couldn’t comprehend spending that amount of money to take the tree down. Instead, Thad gathered two friends and armed himself with a chainsaw this past Saturday.

I considered upping his life insurance policy – just in case – but didn’t. Instead, I offered up a few prayers and it all turned out fine. The only thing that lost any limbs was the tree. Whew!

Third, a disclaimer. I’m not sure if it’s just me, but now that school has started, a familiar fear is sweeping over our family.

Thad and I know kids say the darndest things. We witness that daily in our own home. While most are often comical, we sometimes cringe at the things our children say and do. That’s why I worry a bit about which stories get taken to school and shared with teachers and other classmates.

Based on what my friend’s daughter told me was going on in their house last week, I know other parents must share this same concern (right, Holly?).

So, here’s my disclaimer: if it’s funny – it probably did happen. If it sounds illegal – it didn’t happen, I swear.