Are My Buttons Straight?

"Mom, are my buttons straight?"

This question comes from my six year old son, approaching me as I work at my computer.

It's Wednesday afternoon, and he has just showered and is dressing for church this evening. He's wearing jeans and his newest dress shirt and holding a white bow tie (the shirt and tie were bought for Easter a couple of months ago). 

"Bubba, you don't need a tie for Wednesday night church." I admonish.

"But I like to wear a tie, Mom." 

I sigh and smile. "Yes. I know." 

Then I look at my little boy, struck by how grown up he is.

In that tiny moment, I realize how fast time is flying. Not long ago, I had to refasten his buttons or show him how because, in spite of his best efforts, he almost always missed one or got them in the wrong holes. I nearly tear up, and I thank God for the blessing of motherhood in general, and for this amazing little boy in particular. 

I fasten his tie and make sure his collar lays flat as it should, and I check his buttons...

"Your buttons are perfect."