For my first checkbook and as a gift, my mother got me a pad with some chic design printed on it - colorful stripes. I thought she was making fun of me. Getting me funny looking personal checks that weren’t even negotiable; she knew I was disappointed when I asked her flat out what I was going to do with her gift. She told me that I use it to start my financial management responsibilities. I shook my head.

“Why did you give me a toy, mom?”, she laughed so hard and almost wet her pants. She told me that what I have in my hands are in fact real checks. She further said that she wanted to give me something to commemorate the moment and that she thought about the printed checks. She saw it from one of her staff at the office, polka dots, and told her to order one for me.

I was speechless with my mom’s thoughtfulness and then, embarrassed by how I reacted.

 I wanted to give her something as well. I checked out the site she told me about and ordered something for my mom. It was a garden theme. I had it delivered to her office with a note: Mother knows Best. Love you.