Like any mother, my love for my children is unconditional. I do not expect anything in return from them, although I can never get enough smiles, kisses, or the gleeful sounds they make when I walk in the door at night. I would certainly not mind if either one of them learned to cook, especially Fettucine al Salmone. Flowers (such as large bunches of pink peonies) are always lovely.
Just saying.
If Max is someday up to thanking me for my mom-ness, I would want him to appreciate this: That I have mightily tried to do whatever I possibly can to improve his life, whether it's getting him therapies, finding him new gear and equipment or going all out with stuff like a stem cell infusion. I have certainly not done everything, nor do I do everything all of the time. But I do what I can. I hope he will know that. I hope he will like this blog. And also epicurious.com.
I have thanks on the brain because of Mother's Day and a program I'm getting involved in, Procter & Gamble's Proud Sponsor of Moms. A longtime supporter of The Special Olympics (31 years—who knew?), the company is doing moms of Special Olympic athletes proud with a big chunk of change (we're talking B-I-G) that will support local programs and services. They're also a sponsor of Team USA at the Special Olympics, taking place in Athens June 25 till July 4. A couple of weeks ago, P&G asked whether I'd write about The Special Olympics, as part of a paid sponsorship, and I had to restrain myself from screeching "YES!!!!!" into the phone.
Word, for every person who fans the Thank You, Mom Facebook page or leaves a comment, P&G will donate $1 to support the USA's Special Olympics' team journey to Athens—up to $250,000 above their other contribution. Way to support special needs!
Check out this video of Special Olympics athlete Molly and her mom, Kerry (and have a tissue handy).
On Mother's Day, I suspect Max will give me something purple (SURPRISE!), and it will be awesome. I asked Sabrina what she thinks I want for Mother's Day, and she said, "Pickles." That would be fine, too. Sleeping late (my standard request): priceless.
What token of your kids' appreciation will you be happy to get on Sunday? What might you someday like your child to thank you for?
