I’m just back from my Mother’s Day Makeover and Massage, bestowed by my younger daughter in her kindergarten classroom. 

You should SEE my blue eye shadow and purple polish. Deeee-vine.

When we arrived, the powerful and mama-ish Ms. Y asked the kids, “How’re we gonna treat our mothers this morning?”

“Like the queens they are,” answered our daughters and sons.

And they did. Juice, strawberries, muffins — delivered as we sat on little chairs and let our nails dry. They’d practiced two massage techniques — chops and rubs — and they’re obvious naturals with the blusher and hair ties.

They’d also filled out personal surveys about us. Mine was almost entirely right on — my girl said that sushi was my favorite food but that I love Mexican restaurants, my favorite thing to do is write books, and my favorite movie is Eloise (as in, Eloise who lives in The Plaza Hotel). Don’t you love that? Another mom’s son said her favorite thing to do is clean house, so I’m thinking I came out waaaay ahead. 

Our children were just beamy with pride, and it was so clear that their lessons this week were on giving and gratitude. To sit there, with my baby rubbing aromatic foot lotion into my forearms while she hummed with happiness… who needs Sunday? I am full up.

Now it’s my turn to return the favor. Here’s a little ditty — reportedly Christina Rossetti’s first poem ever — for my mom, for your moms, for all of you…

To My Mother

To-day’s your natal day,
Sweet flowers I bring;
Mother, accept, I pray,
My offering.
 
And may you happy live,
And long us bless;
Receiving as you give
Great happiness.