I’m a list person. I write lots of to-do lists and cross off completed tasks. I’m one of those people who, if I complete a task not originally included on the list, I’ll add it and then mark it off. The line through the finished item feels like a pat on my back, so of course I’m not going to miss that easy gratification.
Since I’ve been “steady learning” empty nesting, I’ve been thinking about words I love to hear from my children besides the obvious, “I love you.” Here’s a list of my top choices:
- Mom, it smells so good in here.
- Please pray for…
- How can I pray for you?
- Have you read…?
- What should I read next?
- This book was fantastic!
- Do you want to watch a Middle? (The Middle TV show)
- This tastes so good, Mom.
- Have you heard the new (Eric Church, Zac Brown, Steep Canyon Rangers, …) song?
- What do you want me to play? (on the piano)
- Are you ready to get your behind kicked in euchre?
- Wanna play Ticket to Ride or Banana Grams or Clue or Scrabble or…?
- Can you make _______ when I get home?
- I am so glad I’m coming home this weekend.
- I can’t wait to get home.
- How can I help?
- Mom, you are a b@d@$$. And a variation that appeared in a recent birthday card, “You are a b@d@$$ girl boss.”
Whether they show up in a text, an email, a real note, in a phone call, or in person, these words make my heart smile.
*”Steady learning” is a nod to Eric Church’s single, Record Year.
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