My to-do list is getting longer by the minute.  I try to tackle one thing and it turns into twenty.  Today’s example:  Complete Kindergarten Application. 
 
Complete 2-page application.  I launch into this task with confidence.  Even when I realize I have to scan and print a copy of my son’s birth certificate, I forge ahead unteterred.  I applaud my ability to find the birth certificate, work my scanner with ease and print it out in minutes.  Then I notice they don’t accept checks for the $65 fee that was required with the application:  only money orders.

ADD Get money order for $65.  Uh-oh.  My bank is eTrade – we have no branch offices – that’s its “charm”.
ADD Search eTrade to find out how to get a money order. I find nothing.
ADD Call eTrade. They tell me I have to write them a letter to get a money order – it’s the ONE thing they cannot do online.
ADD Write letter to authorize eTrade to send a money order. It needs to be notarized.
ADD Get letter notarized. I go to my notary. It’s closed. 
ADD Go to bank to get letter notarized. It’s Columbus Day.  The banks are closed…except one – I heart TD Bank.  And it was free! I almost kiss the notary.
ADD Mail letter. Oops. No mail today either. Oh well, at least it’s off my list. DONE!
 
A 10-minute task turned into a 2-hour project. And people wonder where our time goes? THIS is why it can be so difficult to be a mother working from home. I am expected to be able to knock out these “easy” tasks in-between the looming “real” work that needs to be done in the hours of 9-5 while eating right, getting a workout, and oh, a shower (NOT on the list today!).
 
ADD Call nanny and have her keep kids for an extra hour to finish presentation.

Finish presentation.  Done!