Moments of Motherhood: Mother's Day Memory

Just being a mother on Mother's Day has always been a memorable occasion for me. There is however, one particular Mother's Day that stands out in my memory, above all others.

My son was around twelve years old. I don't know why he decided that he wanted to get me a special Mother's day gift, but for what ever reason he had made up his mind that this was what he was going to do.

My son saved his pennies and dimes, for I don't know how long, this Mother's Day gift was his secret. A few days before Mother's Day, he felt that he had enough money, so he called his cousin (my niece) and asked her if she would take him to our local Wal-Mart, he wanted to buy me a gift. She agreed and they went shopping.

They shopped for hours. He really didn't know what he wanted, my niece suggested several different ideas but my son was adamant. He would know what to buy, when he found it.

Wondering around the store, they finally ended up at the jewelry department. Looking at the various display cases, my son exclaimed, "Here it is, this is what I want to buy mom for Mother's Day!". My niece came over to see what was his idea of a perfect Mother's Day gift. She admitted later, that she was impressed with his choice.

There was only one problem, with the gift that my son chose. He did not have enough money. My niece told me later he was heartbroken, so she offered to pay the difference. My son would not hear of it. It had to be bought with his money. So, they came to a compromise. My niece gave him the extra money that he needed and my son agreed to rake leaves for my niece to earn it.

They returned home and my son carried his special Mother's Day gift into his room where he lovingly wrapped it. He then hid it in his closet and patiently waits until the special day arrives. When it finally does, he proudly presents it to me, along with a huge hug.

My son anxiously watches as I unwrap his gift. He was so proud of his surprise. As I opened the small box, tears instantly sprang into my eyes. Laying nestled into a small piece of cotton, was a beautiful necklace. The charm depicted a mother lovingly holding a small baby in her arms. I was so moved by all the thought that my twelve year old had so lovingly put into his Mother's Day gift.

I have many wonderful Mothers Day memories, but none as special as that year. I still have the necklace that my son so painstakingly chose. It is one of my most treasured possessions. It is times like these that make all the trials of motherhood worth every sacrifice that we as mother's, so willingly give.