Call me Mom

Snow has been with us for a week now but it really does feel like much longer since we have learned so much about her over that time; she has been dancing since she was 3, is left-handed (like me!), dislikes carrots but loves fruit and (so far) my cooking.

Anyone who knows me will agree I am somewhat of a foodie and I love to cook and bake.  I was nervous Snow wouldn't like my food or wouldn't try anything new, but so far she has eaten anything and everything I have given her and even takes leftovers to school.  I like to cook with fresh, healthy ingredients and I know she appreciates it.  Today she said when she is in America she 'gets fat' (for the record she is all of 100lbs) but loses the weight when she goes back to China.  She also said she gets hungry between meals in America but doesn't in China.  I am a strong believer that the processed food here IS addictive due to the sugar content and artificial ingredients; this is a testament to that belief.

I often think about her first two years in America and was curious why she left the previous host family.  She said it was her decision to leave since she wanted a 'whole family' and a bright, sunny bedroom as she had previously had a room in the basement with no windows.  Hmmm, "whole family?" I asked, unsure if we fit the bill.  "Yes" she said, one with both a Mom and Dad.  I guess she just wanted a family unit she was familiar with.  Over the past week she has opened up more as she has got to know us better.  The other day she asked what she should call me.  "Anything but Mrs Teece" I replied.  "Can I call you Mom?" she asked.  I was taken aback but absolutely thrilled she felt comfortable with that.  I am 'Mom' after all, or as Erin calls me, 'super Mom'.

From that moment I knew she would be a great addition to our familly.  She is an absolute delight to have around and I have noticed that Molly and Erin have adapted better than I thought.  Not only are they accepting and accommodating with Snow, but they seem to be more considerate of each other, argue less and keep the bathroom tidier....now if only they kept their rooms tidier!