Eric and I spent this weekend, our sixth wedding anniversary, in Ashland, going to plays at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, shopping in the funky little stores, eating out at delicious restaurants and walking in the beautiful Lithia Park. My parents kindly watched the girls for us, and the weekend was completely delightful.

So delightful that I can't say I was very glad to be back home today. Back to looming deadlines, laundry to do, a house to clean, diapers to change, and food that I have to cook myself. Back to business as usual.

And Beth could once again read my mood with utmost precision. As I knelt to help her put her shoes on, she took my face in her hands, looked me straight in the eye, and said, "Mom, you have to remember to SMILE."

Her serious statement caught me off-guard and brought a genuine smile to my face. I gave her a hug and have been trying to keep her advice in my heart all day long. How blessed I am to have a child who speaks the truth in love to me.