There is a certain type of love that you feel when a child is born. One that is very difficult to describe in words. It is different for everyone. Some feel it instantly, some feel it grow over time. There is also a certain type of love that you feel for one that could be your own. Someone you have held and loved and worried over and done "motherly" things. That's the way it is with Candice. She came to us when she was 11 and lived with us for awhile. It was not the easiest time of our lives. We clashed, we had to set some rules, but we loved her before she came and we loved her like our own by the time she left.
She has always been a part of our lives. Coming and going, texting or calling or coming to visit at random times. She has grown into a beautiful young woman. She has had a lot of trials and tribulations in her life. She is a survivor. She had Paytin and has had to grow up really fast.
I have to hand it to her, though. She is an amazing mom. She loves her little one and provides for her and makes sure she is well-cared for and also gives her structure and discipline. For the circumstances she is in, she is doing a great job!
And how could you not love this little one? She is absolutely adorable. She is the most amazing little girl I have ever met. She is happy and so sweet. She is super smart and very perceptive. I'm not just saying this. She really is an unusual child. Her little spirit is very wise in that little chubby body of hers.
They came to see us the day before Mother's Day. She loved the trampoline. She loved the "helicopter" seed pods. She kept throwing them and laughing and squealing. 
My girls, of course, instantly fell in love with her. They hadn't seen her in a long time and soon they were all best of friends!
Of course, then she charmed Xander, who is easily charmed by little people. He loves them and they love him.
Candice brought me flowers and a card that was so sweet. She is just like a daughter to me. She and I have become friends in a way that works for both of us. She has grown up and matured and now we can talk and get along, instead of my trying to "control" her.
We ended up taking her to Cafe Rio and then to Sweet Frog. It was so fun to just hand out. I am so glad we have been able to maintain this relationship throughout the years.
As a mother of four, I thought my heart would burst each time one of my children was born. I felt so much love for them and knew they belonged. With Candice and Paytin, it is the same amount of love, but it has grown over time. I know that they belong to us. I know that they will always be a part of our lives and I am so glad.
