For weeks now I've found myself answering the question, "Mama, what do you want for your birthday?" with something to the effect of "I want you to draw me a picture, I want someone to wash the floors, and I want a day without any fighting with your brother/sister." And each and every time I think - Did I just say that? - as I'm bombarded with the echo of my mother's own voice. I remember thinking surely she was just saying that - that there was something really big and special she wanted. But you know what, now that I'm here, I'm thinking that maybe she was telling the truth. That a handmade card of love by my favorite people - and a sign made out of grocery bags, a little bit of recognition by them of the work I do at home, and a few extra moments of peace - it's pretty much everything I want.
Of course, I'll still happily take the cinnamon rolls they made me. I'll take all those extra hugs and kisses and songs. And I'll so gladly join in this evening's beach picnic fun with friends and family. I might even let them steer me towards the direction of a yarn store on the way for a little splurge. And I will feel very very spoiled, indeed.
Have some chocolate for me today, would you?
