My son’s wonderful third grade teacher had the kids put together a book about their “Supermoms.” She encouraged them to exercise their writing skills by filling in the blanks and writing short essays. Because my job involves taking the boys to Florida’s theme parks and resorts, I try to teach them that most families cannot do these major activities each week, if ever. I want them to know these once-in-a-lifetimes are privileges for them because I work to make it happen. Often, I think they just don’t get it, but as it turns out, they really do understand – and are thankful, which is the best gift of all.

Here is a sample of what I received from my 9-year-old Jack yesterday…

My mother loves me best when… “I am a good listener.”

I like being with my mom most when… “she is in a happy mood.”

My mother looks prettiest when … “she puts on make-up” 

(Well, at least he's honest!)

If I could give my mother something special, just from me, it would be… “a diamond necklace and bracelet.”

My favorite thing about my mother is… “the way she hugs!”

The funniest thing I remember about my mother…

“The funniest thing I remember about you is the day we went to Aquatica. We went on the water ride and you were screaming half to death! When you were in the wave pool, you were screaming even louder! You were afraid to go on, but I made you. That is the funniest thing I remember about you!”

A very special thanks for all those times I didn’t say ‘thank you.’

“Thank you for getting your job! It lets us do a lot of things that are fun. Thank you for letting me play with my friends almost every day that I am not grounded…”

And finally, the book concludes with a chapter on “My Favorite Experience with My Mom”:

“was when we went scuba diving at the Florida Aquarium. There were 3 eels and one of them bumped into my brother! It was so funny! Also, when we saw a giant barracuda! There were at least 100 angel fish. That was my favorite time with my mom.”

Well, perhaps he was sneaking in a bit of his own creativity (I don’t remember a barracuda, but his mother is a writer!).

Regardless, it is good to know that our kids tend to remember and be thankful for the special moments we try so hard to give them. He didn’t write about Guitar Hero, but the times we traveled together and shared some amazing experiences throughout Florida. 

While there are always moments on family vacations that we would like to forget (just ask my crew!), the ones that stick are the good ones.

I didn’t get the diamond necklace or bracelet, but the simple notes of thanks were the best gift they could ever give me!

Jennifer Michaels