By: Angela Gillaspie Copyright © May 2002

"Mom, what do you want for Mother's Day?" my son asked.

Good question!

First, I want you stop fighting with your brother and sister. I understand the angst you must feel when your little brother is hoarding the only unbroken red crayon or the injustice of watching your big sister eat the last grape Pop Tart. Life is hard.

Having someone play with the baby so that I could thoroughly chew my food before swallowing, would be great. By the way, other people besides me can actually hold your baby brother. Amazing, but true!

Wiping up the crumbs from the table, floor, and chair after you finish your snack would make me smile. If I didn't have so many messes to clean, I would have more time to make mud pies, play soccer, and draw the stinky cheese man. Also, an occasional "please" would be nice to hear instead of, "I'm hungry! I want something to eat!"

Speaking of food, saying, "Yuck! Can I have a Pop Tart?" after I spent several hours making supper makes me sad. So does arguing over how many carrots and bites of chicken casserole you must eat before you leave the table.

Obedience would be good. I mean, I am the mother here, right? The reason I say no sometimes isn't because I'm mean, it's because running with a sharp stick, eating five pounds of candy before supper, and bringing lizards in the house aren't safe.

Showing consideration would be nice. Having someone care if I were hurt, sad, or hungry would make me feel so loved. You know, the bottom line is that I don't feel appreciated. When I look at the things I do for you, I rarely hear a 'thank you'. I guess that's what I really want for Mother's Day: appreciation.

I'm definitely not the greatest mom - I lose my temper when you kick the ball in the house, I embarrass you when I play Daddy's disco music really loud in the minivan, and I work on the computer more than I should - but I'm trying to do the best job that I can. I've caught fireflies, baked cookies for your class parties, kissed your tears away, cheered for you in the rain, packed oodles of lunches, made gifts for your teachers, and that was just last week!

Being a mom is so rewarding and I thank God every day for allowing me to be your mother; I am blessed. I just need a little appreciation once in a while - just a little 'thank you'. That, and maybe a hug, are all I want for Mother's Day!

Stay tuned for more of Southern Angel's moanin' momma stories!