A Bummer in the Summer

Mom's been out of town for a work retreat. She went unwillingly, but sounded like she was having a good time when she called. Ironically, she's only about 30 minutes from home. Practically in her parents backyard, actually.

Anyway, Gert suddenly realized this morning that she misses Mommy terribly. It hurts, almost, how much she misses Mommy. She's not crying or anything. Just filled with existential angst.

She wanted to call Mommy at 6:30 this morning. I told her it was a little early, but that we would be picking Mommy (and her bike) up from work after I pick her (Gert) up from school this afternoon.

"But that's sooooooo looooooong," she said.

"Tell you what. Get dressed, eat breakfast, brush your teeth and we can watch your favorite TV show and make a card for Mom telling her how much you missed her and how much you love her." This got her moving, albeit slowly. Finally, an hour later, she was ready to make a card.

She tore out two pieces of paper from a small notebook and laid them verso and recto (hey, I'm in publishing), and taped the gutter down. Then she drew two self-portraits. She signed each with her name (her real one, which you might be able to decipher if you're smart) and asked if we could put it in the mail.

"Well, she's coming home today, so she won't get it by mail." It was decided that putting it under her pillow was the best idea.

When Mom gets home and sees this photo, she's screwed. Gert explained it showed how sad she was and that she drew in real tears.

Good luck Mom, because when you see this your entire life is over. You may never leave home again without your sweet little Gert.