As far as traditional rituals are concerned, I have always been a Scrooge of the worst kind. I hate Christmas shopping, haven’t a clue how to cook a turkey, and refuse to acknowledge “Hallmark” holidays (those special days created by greeting-card companies to generate sales in between real holidays). But with Michael now a part of my life, Santa is back in action; Halloween costumes are an absolute necessity; and “Easter, the bunny,” as Michael used to call him, has me boiling and coloring eggs and hiding them. What I am learning is that the big rituals are only a small part of what makes a childhood happy, secure, and special. Oftentimes those on a smaller scale seem to have the greatest impact. Unknowingly, I have created numerous rituals for Michael, completely unaware of the value he would place on them. During dinner I always put ketchup on his plate in the shape of a giant smiley face. After dinner, when he is settled into his bed, he asks, “Kate, what should I dream about?”
What do You think about An Accidental Mother (2011)?
