Dog steals stuff to get my attention

Well... you've given her exactly what she wanted - attention! Dogs do what works and they will stop doing what doesn't work. Even a correction or scolding can be seen as a positive reinforcement (getting rewarded bc they're getting attention) and will cause the behavior to continue.
 
Your approach should be multi-pronged. First, though your dog is not a puppy, "puppy proof" the house. Bathroom door closed, recycle bin up or behind closed doors, tables & counters clear. If you are busy and doing something important like tending to your mother, crate or confine the dog until you're done. If your dog does manage to grab something naughty, the best way to get it away from her is to calmly, slowly, walk up, not making eye contact, take it away, and say nothing to her at all. When my dog was a young pup and always grabbing things, I would even pretend I was going to walk by him and make a lateral move to recover the object. You have to "ignore" the dog and be as boring as possible when doing this.
 
And then, give your dog more attention, but only at appropriate times and when she's doing things you like. Increase her physical exercise, and do some fun training sessions too.

I can't offer any help other than reassurance that you are not alone!  Dirty socks are far better than raw steak in Winston's eyes . . . . [8|]

Thanks Jones, makes sense. You're right on all counts. She does parade in front of my face.  Guess an in-her-face bin with cardboard boxes is NOT the way to train.

Shohin, i think they know deep down inside how funny/cute they look prancing around with a dirty sock in mouth. We often think "sense of humour" is reserved for people, but Dogs sure have it too.

 I figured, just by her actions when we first got her, that her previous Dad (passed away) used to come home from work, take his socks off, and throw them to her, i think that was their game.  Will work on it more.

just don't chase her and she'll stop doing it.  Totally ignore her.
A friend of mine's dog grabs a loud squeaky toy and sits next to her squeaking it whenever she tries to talk on the phone, so be glad yours only grabs things like boxes.

Mudpuppy, that is SO FUNNY!

I think if my dog did that, i would NOT try to train it out of her...it just sounds too delightful !  ...something just made for those crazy pet videos.  Smart dog your friend has!