My attempt to remain far, far away from Athens on Mother’s Day weekend fails this year. I plan a day trip on Saturday to attend Troy’s graduation from Athens Community College and Bethany’s baby shower. When I agreed to attend, I informed my friends that I would not be spending the night—I claimed I wanted to spend Mother’s Day with Alma when really, I plan to spend the day with my daughter. Of course, Adrian and Bethany know my real Mother’s Day plans.

I recently ...