A perfect Mother’s Day weekend is coming to an end. Perfect, not because it was perfect…perfect because it was not…perfect.

Like life, the weekend was peppered with disappointing mishaps…the gift that didn’t arrive on time and a flat tire that derailed our plans for the rest of Sunday morning after a lovely breakfast.

To my daughters who were disappointed that their gift didn’t arrive on time, knowing that it is on its way stirs memories of the months I waited for each one of you. You have already given me the best gift of all. You have each given me your presence, your sweet smiling faces, your laughter, and the precious gift of watching you grow into amazing human beings. I’m glad to wait a day or two longer for your special gift. Each time I look at it, I’ll think of all of these things, ponder them in my heart because that’s what mothers do.

And about that inconvenient flat tire. To my first born who delayed her busy schedule to help us get the tire repaired, I admit I was almost grateful for the detour. It gave me a few more minutes with you and reminded me of what I already know. Though we are all busy with work and school, spiraling in different directions day to day, family, our family is the gravity that holds us together and keeps us close. We are connected by an invisible cord.

My idea of perfection might seem a little odd to you. But it is the messy imperfections in life that touch my heart the deepest.

Happy Mother’s Day!