It was a cold rainy winter night as she turned the key in the door. She huddled quickly inside as the wind blowing behind sent shivers down her spine. The house was quiet and the only sound was the snoring of her father from an upstairs bedroom. A long day’s work at a local factory had been followed by an evening of dancing with some friends in town. Her feet were tired, her clothes were damp, and she couldn’t wait to get to bed. As she climbed the stairs a gentle voice whispered in her direction. The familiar silhouette of her mother appeared and they chatted briefly before hugging and saying goodnight. After a quick change out of her damp clothing she dove under the bed covers to try and shake off the cold that immersed her body. The immediate warmth of the bed dismissed the cold chills… ahhh… there it was… the hot water bottle! She smiled and called out to her mother, “Goodnight, I love you.” A mother smiled because she knew her daughter was home safe in her bed, a daughter smiled because she knew how much her mother loved her!
This is one of my favorite memories of my mother. It was a simple thing that my mother did that night but it is one I cherish. Sometimes we try to do big things and we forget that it is the simple things our children will remember. The story of the hot water bottle didn’t end that night twenty years ago. This December night is cold and the air outside is chilly. As my children scramble into their beds tonight they will be greeted by the warmth of a hot water bottle. They will rest well tonight in their warm beds and I will look upon them lovingly as they sleep. Then I will smile and remember my mother!
Looking Inward with Lily 
Love this. Thanks for reminding me that I don’t have to do big things or buy things for my kids or anyone for that matter. Sometimes just a gesture of kindness is the memory that we take with us.
You’re welcome Vicki. Glad you liked this post. I think you will like this quote too as it relates to doing simple things:
“I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures. Simple in actions and in thoughts, you return to the source of being. Patient with both friends and enemies, you accord with the way things are. Compassionate toward yourself, you reconcile all beings in the world.” – Lao Tzu
Agh Linda, that brings memories and warmth to my heart.. The only thing is there were 6 of us and we were in two rooms 3 boys in one room and 3 girls in the other and we had to share one in each bed.. lol.. happy days they were the simple things in life…. wish we had them back at times.. :))
Happy Days Deb 🙂
Blessings and Love. Thank you for sharing this. It made my day 🙂
You’re very welcome CC Fowler. Glad you liked this story 🙂
What a lovely memory to have of your mom!
Thanks Michele 🙂