all dressed up

"Mommy, can I wear your pearls?"

I heard these quiet words pierce my ears and as I peered down, I saw my little 5-year old daughter. Her eyes glowing in hopes I'd stay yes. How can I say no?

We head up to my bedroom and as I open my jewelry box I hear her giggle with glee....I take out the pearl necklace that was given to me on my wedding day. As I put the pearls around Readan's neck and close the clasp my eyes start to well up with tears. With no more room, they begin to overflow down my cheeks. I forgot how warm and salty tears are. Readan says, "What's wrong Mommy?" "Oh nothing baby....you're just growing up really fast." And she answers, "I know Mommy, it's because you make me eat carrots."

It's moments like these that are priceless. Through all the hard work and self sacrifice that motherhood IS, it also offers moments like these.