A few years ago my oldest son started a bit of a Mother's Day tradition.  His gift to me was none other than a trip to the nearest Starbucks.  Every year he would remind me a few days ahead of time of "our tradition".  I thought it was the greatest.  Not because I like Starbucks so much, but because he thought I liked Starbucks.  What he really knew was that I like mochas and he wanted to get me one.  It was his way of giving his mom something that would bring me delight, which in turn delights him. 

I was sooooo looking forward to the Starbucks trip this year.  But something my son said the other day made me wonder, would there be a trip?  He said what he was getting me this year was BETTER than Starbucks. I was instantly saddened.  I was worried it would be another one of his pottery creations!  It wasn't that I didn't appreciate the gifts he made me in his Pottery class, but honestly I didn't have the heart to tell him it wasn't his forte.  He was so proud of all he had made. 

What I really loved about the Starbucks trips is that he understood who I am.  Somehow, in all those years of raising him he got to know me and the things I like.  The simple, hidden things that bring joy.  I was always so proud of my son as he ordered me my favorite drink.

But today was different.  I woke up expecting, hoping he would come rushing up the stairs ready to make our annual trip.  Saddened, as that didn't happen, I started getting the house ready for our guests.  In the middle of all that activity my son walks through the door.  What?  Are those flowers he's holding?  Oh, I was still so proud - he's growing up, becoming a man, thinking of the important things.  I was still anticipating hearing, "Mom, are you ready to go to Starbucks?"  but instead he pulled out a box of cereal from the grocery bag.  Hmm, he must be hungry. 

As I put the flowers in the vase and thanked him for them, and tell him how pretty they are he makes a statement about the cereal.  A bit of a threatening statement, something to the effect that if anyone touches the cereal he will "pummel" them.  A little harsh, but he did spend his own money on it so I guess he can call it his. 

Then, all of a sudden he says, "See mom, I told you I was getting you something BETTER than Starbucks this year" as he pointed to the cereal....

Makes me almost want to cry just thinking about it.  You see, the cereal he bought, it's my all-time favorite.  And he knew that on the rare occasion when I buy this cereal I don't get any of it.  With 8 kids cereal goes FAST - especially sugared cereal!   

I was so proud of my son....he really does know me, and he proved it again this year.  He understands value in the simple, hidden things that bring joy.  Today he understood that nothing would touch me so much as my very own box of LUCKY CHARMS! 

So long Starbucks!