Today, my daughter and I skipped school. Okay, we didn’t skip, although it felt like it in the afternoon. E had some medical testing at the hospital early this morning that took two and a half hours. When the doctor first told us of the procedure, E was instantly uncomfortable and apprehensive. I decided then that we would have something to look forward to afterwards – shopping. The mall is a favorite place for E to go. Of course we stopped at the bookstore first and spent time browsing the sections. We lingered in the bookstore more than any other store today. We spent the afternoon having fun, forgetting the morning’s procedures. We enjoyed each other’s company.
On our way home from the day, E said in the car, “Mom, I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you for being there.” She leaned over and kissed my cheek.
My heart was instantly warmed.
I stood by her side. I let her squeeze my hand until my fingers hurt. I talked up a storm to distract her. I was mom and I loved my daughter. I was there for her.
Those words have lingered with me. I hope that in the future E will be able to forget today, but I hope that she will never forget that I will be there for her no matter what. Motherhood is definitely very busy, demanding, and often times noisy. But I was honored today with my daughter’s words. She highlighted the best of motherhood – being there.
Posted by MaryHelen 
Book Savors 