for mom

dear momma,

this morning, i raided the refrigerator for some breakfast, poured myself a cup of coffee and woke up slowly with the world.

today feels like a charmed moment. the sun is shining. the coffee is strong and hot. of course, it may just be the clarity that follows inclement weather -- it's all the more precious in contrast with what came before. even if life cannot stay this way forever, right now all feels right with the world. i am joyfully at peace.

the cat in my lap is gently 'bathing' the dog's nose as he rests it on my leg...providing a gentle reminder that we are capable of looking after each other in a kind and careful way.

wouldn't it be lovely if the world were a place where everybody got his or her needs met and received plenty of acknowledgment? everything is sweeter when we begin to appreciate each other and mutual admiration prevails.

mother's day is tomorrow. and the idea of appreciating each other reminds me how lucky i am to have you as my particular mom.

far from perfect, and frequently far from sane, you are the reason i am who i've become. as a child, you always treated me like an adult (which, frankly, i didn't always appreciate - though i'm grateful for it now.), and now that i'm older, you recognize me as an individual, not as an extension or reflection of yourself. and you always treat me as someone you like (and remind me to treat myself that same way - thank you).

and if i'm honest, i know it's mostly due to your example that i have the tools i need to navigate the world...that i know how to be reasonable and fair and strong and careful and responsible. you are the reason i can drive a stick-shift, make a thanksgiving turkey and find humor in everything. you are why i cry when i laugh, and pay attention when i drive, and why i spend saturday mornings cleaning the house and listening to carole king. you are also the reason i know the joy of 'too many' pets, that i don't fear moving to new places where i don't know anyone and that i know there isn't anything ice cream, james taylor or a phone call from home can't fix.

happy mother's day, momma. you and your existence in the world flavor everything for me.

(what flavor is it, you ask? vanilla ice cream with hershey's syrup. is there any other?)

i love you,

leigh annie