My kids have returned from a short vacation with their grandparents. They are all sugared up, spoiled (a lot), and really happy to have bonded with them. I’m so grateful that we live close enough to my family that my children and building their own relationships with my family. As a child I spent summers on Cape Cod with my grandparents and still have many fond memories of those times together.
I was surprised when my oldest shared that she had bought me a gift. Although my kids are still young enough that we talk multiple times a day when apart, I never think of them truly thinking of me when they are having SO much fun. Apparently they went to a few stores and my oldest fell in love with a bead store. At the store she found this agate polished rock:
WOW. I was so completely shocked that my 9 year old not only picked out a perfect gift for me but knows me as well as I think I know her. I asked her why did she pick this stone to which she replied that “First I was going to get you Imagine but then I saw this one and knew it was for you. ” When I asked her why…she replied because “This is what you do…you know, with your art.”
What a gift to hear these words from my daughter and to receive this stone. I plan to carry it with me (when I have pockets) as a reminder to stay focused on living my life authentically and with creative passion.
As I have just yesterday announced my choice to believe in my creativity and my new career path as a coach. I see this gift from my daughter another message from the Universe that I am on the right path!

Hi Marianne,
I love this blog post. Our children often know us much better than we realize! So many gifts reside inside this one seemingly small act of kindness and speak volumes about your relationship with your daughter.
SO much of what you write resonates with me. I love your daily intentions. Some time I Will tell you about a few experiences I had when I got up in the morning and determined I was going to have a good day!
Intentions really do work!
xo
Sharon
[...] My daughter’s gift that I will keep with me [...]
[...] career, and aspirations. I already shared this image on this blog and the story of my daughter giving me this gift. It really does sum up everything about who I am, who I want to be, and one of my leading values in [...]