The Idea I Stoll From My 3 Year Old

Weekends as a single mom were spent adventuring. My little girl and I hiked, biked, picnicked, visiting museums, beaches and the like. I remember sometimes feeling like something was missing and wishing there could be a husband and a daddy to be there with us. Now I look back and think about how perfect and complete those days really were. Wish I'd seen that then. On one Sunday afternoon, we went swimming at the local health club and afterward we were in the locker room, getting changed and I was redoing my hair and make up. I listened to the giggles of my three year old as she ran circles around the lockers. Then I heard her talking to herself. The giggles and chatter continued until finally I chased after her and caught her in a hug. "What are you doing, Sweetie?" I kissed her on the cheek. "I'm playing with my friend...she's hiding," my little one exclaimed. "Where is your friend?" She took my hand and led me over to one of the full length mirrors and then burst into giggles, pointing at her reflection in the mirror. "It's Lulee Bean!" Then, it apparently being her turn to hide, ran to the other side, leaving me smiling from ear to ear at the silliness and imagination. Someday I'll probably look back at this chaotic life full of mismatched socks, messes on my floor and tired feet by the end of the day and I won't see what was missing. I'll say "it was perfect". Help me God, to see that now.