Work-In-Progress

Me and my boy: both of us a work-in-progress.

Dear Mom,

Without you I am an empty tissue box.

With you, I am a strong tree.

Without you, I am a TV with no sound.

With you, I am safe.

My life is full of joy with you at my side.

Sincerely,

Andrea Perrone Jr.

My mother's day poem.
I especially treasure the eraser marks and misspellings.
And I adore that he used his full name.
*sigh*
Only a mother could understand that!

TRUE STORY:

Me: Oh, Peanut!  What a beautiful, touching poem!  Thank you!  From the bottom of my heart, thank you.  You are so talented, and so expressive! (wiping away a tear)

Him: I wrote it for you.

Me: Yes, I see that.  It's signed "Sincerely, Andrea Perrone Jr." (and I begin to chuckle)

Him: Do you like it?

Me: Yes!  I love it!

Him: Then why are you laughing?

Me: Um, well, honey... it is a beautiful and touching gift from your heart, and I will treasure it forever.  I just think it's kinda funny that you used the word: Sincerely. 

Him: But why?  Is that wrong?

Me: No, it's just that "sincerely" is usually only used in business correspondence.  Not heart-felt notes or letters.  I'm laughing because it's precious!

Him:  Yeah.  And I'm laughing now because you don't realize that being my mother is your job!!!

Ha!  I love this kid with all my heart!

On a more meaningful note, if I were to write back, my poem might look something like this:

Dear Peanut,

I am a better mother to you 

for remembering this one small truth 

every single day of your life: 

God is just loaning you to me.

Love always,

Mommy

Happy Mother's Day to all of the women being celebrated for the greatest and hardest job in the world!  Sincerely!

xo,

AGP