“Can you come over?”

When I hit “Send” I offered up a silent prayer that she’d say yes.  I tossed the phone onto the passenger seat and headed in to pick up the kids, the four hours of sleep and lack of breakfast doing little to sustain me.  I saw the smiles on their faces and reminded them to put their toys away as we headed outside.  The kids stopped and listened, surprised by the now audible sounds of the ice-coated branches blowing in the breeze.

We climbed into the lingering warmth of the car, my mind working hard to abandon the list of tasks to accomplish and be present. I checked my phone and exchanged a few more texts before heading toward home.  We talked and slowed to a near-stop to let the kids marvel at the “sparkly” trees.  I heard the soft buzz of an incoming message.

“On my way.  C you soon.”

I relaxed, knowing at the very least I could make it through.

Four days away from my mid-thirties, it’s still such a blessing to know Mom is there to lend a hand exactly when I need her.

This post was written as part of a monthly challenge sponsored by Two Writing Teachers, to encourage writing and community.  The goal is to write a Slice of Life entry each day throughout the month of March.