Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Today I Believe...

I timed my morning drop off of Hansel & Gretel perfectly.
Cinderella was already at camp, dropped off by her Dad who chooses to handle her transportation himself, despite my offers to help out since I am there anyway with H & G.
She was radiant. Bubbly. Like the Cinderella I know and not the gloomy sour-puss I've seen the past few weeks.
I called her over. She spotted the small box in my hand that was wrapped in golden paper.
I got a present!?!?!?!?
"Happy Birthday. You look so beautiful today."
I hugged her, holding her tight and taking in the scent of her freshly shampoo'd hair, still damp because it's so thick. I cradled her face in my hands, wished her a happy birthday, and kissed her cheek that was pink and glowing from the smiling one should always do on their birthday.
She smiled broader, thanked me and skipped off with her gift and hand-written card in which I told her how much I loved and missed her. She plopped to the floor and opened them surrounded by her friends.
I didn't linger. Didn't wait for her reaction or additional thanks. I wanted her to have her space to process and digest the sentiments expressed in my card and the message of the bracelet.
I had done what I intended to do. I reached out and she accepted.
I sat in my car and shed a few tears. I was relieved. And realized how much I missed that kid.

Today I Believe ... there is hope for our relationship.

10 comments:

perdido said...

Good for you and good for Cindy!

Kate Rowan said...

Thats the kind of momma I want to be. Thanks for this story. Its beautiful.

Crafty and Crap said...

I"m so happy.. you made me cry, so glad you had that moment with her.

Anonymous said...

Beautifully-handled. I'm sure it will not be soon forgotten. (((Hugs)))

Daughter of The King said...

What a beautiful story. Thanks for sharing that with us.

Suzie Q said...

I am happy for you both. I wish you the best.

Q said...

You have given and continue to give her the very best present any 14 year old girl can receive: the gift of generous, open-hearted and unconditional love. Lucky girl. :-)

Shannon said...

There is no relationship that is beyond repair. You're continued love and care will reach her heart.

On the lighter side, she's 14, a lot of us didn't care for our Moms much when we were teenagers...I lost my mind for a few years (12-17). Now we are best friends.

Hang in there, she won't be a teenager forever.

underagedenraged said...

This is such a beautiful, encouraging story!
You are one to look to for inspiration in the hard times.

Half Off Marco said...

Thanks for a great reaad