After throwing together a dinner of food scrounged from the refrigerator -- chicken fajitas, cherry coffeecake, corn cut from the last remaining cob and some raspberries -- my husband told me I had graduated from the school of motherhood.

Lesson one, according to him, is learning to put together a last-minute meal of nothing but leftovers and still having it hit most of the major food groups.

Not bad for someone who couldn't even make Jell-O in college.

My proud moment got me thinking about other things I've accomplished since becoming a mom five years ago:

Learning to do everything with one hand. Since carrying a child in your arms doesn't allow you the freedom to use both hands, becoming adept at doing everything with one is essential.

Mastering the art of distraction. Child on the verge of melting down in the van? Saying, "Look! I think I see a dog!" works every time.

Remembering every verse to "Wheels on the Bus" and even making up a few of my own.

Turning ordinary objects into toys or something of interest. When you've been waiting too long in the doctor's office and there isn't anything to occupy them except for the contents of your purse, you learn quickly how to become a magician.Now if only I could remember to pack some small toys or books in my bag before we leave the house. I've still got a lot to learn.