Mommy Brain

Think mommy brain is just an excuse for moms everywhere to get a free pass for (fill in the blank)? Well, I'm sure some mothers have no problem pulling the "Sorry, I have mommy brain" line when it can work to their advantage, for sympathy or both. For instance, what better way to justify missteps at the workplace, late payments or neglecting to do any number of chores or errands? Then I had to start using that line, because it was true! Over the last few weeks, I've developed a serious case of mommy brain. Interestingly enough, recent research suggests the brain of a new mom actually gets bigger versus "mushier." Some people might even say motherhood makes you smarter. I wouldn't argue with either, but I have to say that I'm constantly surprised by what my new mommy brain state is capable of. Do you suffer from mommy brain or know someone who does? Check out my list below to find out: You know you are suffering from mommy brain when...

• You can't remember where you put your keys...ever again.
• You walk into a room and forget why you went there in the first place.
• Things that shouldn't be refrigerated mysteriously appear in your fridge: cereal box, keys, chips, wallet, etc.
• You leave the house-or let your kid leave the house-without an essential item of clothing (um, shoes, for instance) or wearing an article of clothing backward or inside out.
• You tell everyone at home that you've lost your glasses-without realizing they're on the top of your head.
• When you talk, you have problems finishing...your sentences.
• You lose other people's keys and convince yourself that they never gave them to you in the first place.

Do you have a symptom I should add to the list? Do tell. Of course, sleep deprivation doesn't help the situation. Treat yourself (or your mommy friends) to some well-deserved relaxation and allow some of the coolest mommy rockers (in lullaby form, of course) to treat your kids to a snooze fest, too! .