Time Sucks

I use the word "sucks" in my title not as an adjective but as a verb. As in, I'm making a list of things that quickly take up more time then you ever anticipate spending on them.

1. The computer/internet. I rarely get on my computer anymore without being drawn in and losing at least a half hour. My usual, "Oh, I'll just check my email" quickly turns into checking facebook, then friends' blogs, and then there's the Yahoo! homepage and if John & Kate are there you know I have to read it. (I never thought I was a rubbernecker, but when it comes to them I just can't. stop. watching.)

2. Television. My first love. It wasn't my husband badgering me to get a large flat screen tv that brought one into our home. It was my own obsession with television and the fact that I wanted to see it bigger, bolder, better!! With the addition of a DVR I can blissfully spend hours in front of the television, happily avoiding chores and responsibilities, and thus landing the tv on the major time suck list.

3. Cutting Coupons. I haven't even bothered to do this for the past three years. But now, since I am a SAHM again, I feel like I ought to be. I clearly see the benefit to saving as much money as possible, and I like getting a bargain, but what a PIA they are!! I haven't found a system that works for me and an old envelope just isn't cutting it. I have one of those bulky organizers (you know, with the dividers?) that I could use but they're so dorky and awkward. Then again, I am using my own bags at the grocery store now and as a child nothing to me screamed "Crazy Old Lady" more than someone using their own bags...sigh.... Maybe that organizer and I will have a future together.

4. The Doctor's Office. Holy crap why does it TAKE so LONG?!?!?! I used to feel incredibly guilty if I was a few minutes late for an appointment, but after spending over an hour waiting for the doctor in a paper gown I no longer have remorse.

5. Lines, in general. I am actually a pretty patient person and I try really hard not to complain when I'm waiting in line. It doesn't make sense to me to be upset over something I have no control over. I do, however, sometimes curse myself for picking the wrong lane. Consequently I don't think I'd be very good at a game show. But waiting in line is tedious and if you add a few kids to the mix it is now not only a time suck but one of those "please just let me survive this moment" kind of deals.

And that's a whole 'nother list.

P