Teddy Bear Picnic

It was the event of the year.  The one every first grader looked forward to.
The Teddy Bear Picnic.
The idea was elegantly simple.  Invite parents.  Have everyone bring their favorite teddy bears.  Read "Stone Soup".  Eat stone soup.  
There was one tiny little flaw.  My mom was working two jobs, going to school full time, and barely had time to breathe.  I asked her to come but also said it wasn't a big deal if she didn't make it.  She promised me she would try her hardest to be there.
Lunch time came and all the parents shuffled in carrying they childhood favorites.  I wanted my mom to be there so bad.  
We waited as long as we could, but Mrs. R. said we had to get started.  It turned out to be kind of a big deal.
The soup was served first.  I had lost my appetite and even though Mrs. R. wanted to save a bowl just in case my mom came, I was too embarrassed.  
Then as everyone finished their second helping, my mom came through the door.  Smiling her radiant smile and hugging me oh so tight.  
That was the happiest moment.  I knew my mom loved me and would bend over backwards to make me happy.  
To this day, she continues to do that.  My mom's the best.