On Mother’s Day, my grown kids told me they had chosen the restaurant and expected me to pay for all twelve of them, just like always.

I’m spending today on a flight to Italy.

For thirty seconds, no one responded.

Then Brian sent:

Brian: Very funny.

Madison followed:

Madison: Mom, don’t start drama today.

Kevin wrote:

Kevin: You’re not going to Italy. You don’t even like long flights.

Helen smiled faintly, slipped her passport into her purse, and ordered a car.

At 12:54, while her children continue reading …