How Do I Look?

I am at work putting to good use the principle of discipline, characteristic of focus, deep concentration and having a strong work ethic...just like my mother taught me. My Mommy. She's the apple of my eye and I am the apple of hers. She taught me how to grow up to one day fill her Queendom-sized shoes. I thought I was there. Accomplished, educated, focused on my career at a Fortune 500 firm - I think I'm doing O.K. I'd say I've done what she's advised for most of my life. I'm thankful for her wisdom, and hope I'm a better woman because of her. You can say she's proud of me (at least she says that she is).

So why, after being asked to attend a cousin's wedding, did my mother request to see my outfit before attending?

The diatribe:
Me: "What?! Mom! Are you serious?!"
Mom: "Well, do you have anything formal? The reception is formal."
Me: "Yes Ma, I have a few gowns from the 30 or so weddings I've been in."
Mommy: "Well, I just want to see what you're wearing. Don't I ask you 'How do I look?' when I try on clothes?"
Me: "Seriously, Mommy. You don't ask me every time, and it's not for me to approve what you have on. I can't believe (at my age) you are wanting to approve my attire! Forget it, I don't want to go anymore. Please tell Cousin Mary, thanks but no thanks."
Mommy: "The offer to attend the wedding and reception are still on the table, I'll let Cousin Mary know you'll be coming. I can get the outfit for you, you know. You know how our people talk and like to dress, Queen. Don't you want to look and feel good about yourself?"
Me: "So I don't feel good about myself now? And I am one of those people. I like to dress!"
Mommy: "O.K., fine. I don't know why you don't want me to help you."
Me: "It's not that Ma. I know what to wear. And on the day of the wedding, I'll ask you 'How do I look?' and the both of us will approve."
Mommy: "Oh, so you wanna go now?"
Me: "Yeah Ma, I'll go."
Mommy (chuckling): "O.K., I'll talk to you later. I love yooooouuu."
Me: "O.K., love you too Mommy."

I got off the phone wondering what had just happened? How does she still do that after all these years? I tried to be firm and stand my ground, but turned to creamed honey butter in just a few moments. I guess I'll be living out my years trying to fill those shoes. Size: Queendom. When I finally fit them, I'll ask you: "How do I look?" Please say I look great in them...please?


UPDATE 5/22 (via voice mail message): "Hi Queen, it's Mommy. Just thought I'd pick up a few items and drop them off at your place - the wedding is next week. Let me know what you think after you try them on. Oh, and I turned your alarm on for you...you must remember to turn that thing on! OK, love you. bye!"


I need this skill...its a little more than persistence  - seriously.