THE WINNING ENTRY:
The time has come once again. That time of year whose intentions started innocently enough – a day to appreciate the woman who gave us life – has turned into every child’s worst nightmare.
As a child, your hand printed in clay, a macaroni necklace or handmade cards are considered wonderful Mother’s Day presents. But then you grow up, and suddenly you feel the need to be creative. Flowers die and candy is fattening. You try candles and gift certificates. Jewelry gets too expensive.
As the years go on, you start listening for clues about what she really wants, and inevitably you screw things up. Here are a few things I have learned:
- When she complains about wrinkles, that does NOT mean that she will appreciate getting anti-wrinkle cream for Mother’s Day
-
When she is upset about how dirty the shag rug is, that is NOT a hint that she would like a steam cleaner for Mother’s Day
-
When buying clothing, you can’t win. Buying a size that is too large is insulting and buying a size too small is depressing to one’s mother (“I haven’t been that size since…”)
Not this year, I say! I am determined not to screw things up! There has to be something better – something creative and useful, relaxing yet invigorating. A makeover at Teddie’s would be ideal!
A color would erase those white hairs that mysteriously became more numerous as my sister and I entered our high school and college years. A good cut may fix that style that has not been changed since 1968 (really, rollers and ratting your hair should NOT be an integral part of your every day beauty regime).
But these are not the true reasons my mother deserves to be pampered at Teddie’s. The true reason is that I love her and she has spent her entire life putting my father, my sisters, and I first. It is her turn. It is time to really make it all about Mom on this Mother’s Day.
(We really liked this witty entry because it explains
so
well
what Mothers Day is all about. Growing up is
partly
about
realizing what your Mom already knows:
the act
of giving
is so much more important than the
gift itself. -Teddie) |
