On various Mother's Days and birthdays, I often get a homemade gift certificate for a date with one of my sons. I've tucked them away in my jewelry box over the past few years. There's a sweet collection of a variety of unredeemed certificates made with good intentions and love. At times I wondered if I was to call and arrange this date, but then I'd remember that it was a gift of their time, so I chose to wait.
Last year while there were many personal changes going on in my life, I'd often open the bottom drawer of the jewelry box and pull out a certificate. They started to become the most valued treasure among the simple necklaces, earrings, and bracelets that I owned. I no longer just wanted to spend a few moments with my son, but my heart desired this gift of time. I needed a hug and to be told, "I love you, Mom." He probably needed a hug too and to be reminded that he is loved. Don't we all?
My daughter-in-law called me a few weeks ago to arrange a date with my youngest son. I was so thrilled and marked the date on my calendar! I came home from work and went straight to the jewelry box to get my most recent certificate out! When date night came, I slipped on a dress and promised myself I wouldn't cry but give him the biggest hug. A mother's hug that lingers those extra few seconds. A kiss on the cheek would complete the greeting.
In my book, I Called Her Nan, part of the Epilogue stands out to me...
"I Called Her Nan is about a woman who was both my mother-in-law and my friend, who over time made an impact on my life. Yet the impact wasn't felt until I started walking in her shoes, shoes that have since taken me through the mud of disappointments and tears of many kinds. Shoes that have allowed me to appreciate the joys in my life and understand how she must have enjoyed those moments too. Shoes that became worn by working and serving others. Most importantly, her shoes weren't perfectly made, yet they had strong soles that allowed her to walk with her family through all the seasons of their lives and her own."
Thank you Jojo for our date night :) Momma loves you!
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