A Surrogate Mother

I saw my girl!

And I heard her voice!

Saturday afternoon, Brian and I had a Skype date with Elizabeth. And it was such a delight to see and hear her. We got to see her room, and the home where she's living in Mexico. Got to briefly meet her host parents. And we heard all about life in Santiago de Queretaro.
But, for the life of me, I was having a hard time concentrating on the things Elizabeth was saying.
Because she was clearing her throat frequently.
And she was sniffling.
I thought, Is she sick? Is she crying? Why would she be crying?
And I started asking if she'd found the vitamins she wanted to buy.
I checked on her fruits/veggies intake.
Asked about her sleep habits. Was she getting enough? (Because I know lack of sleep has health consequences. But with my girl, lack of sleep can also lead to weepy-ness.)
I realized this beautiful young woman - who has done very well acclimating to a new culture, new language, and new way of life - is very capable of making the necessary choices for her health and well-being. But inside, I started going all Over-protective-mother and just wanted to jump through the computer screen and tuck my girl into bed for an afternoon nap, or something.
Anything to feel like I was taking care of my girl.
Then, as if on cue, Elizabeth's Mexico-mom stepped into her bedroom and handed her a glass of cantaloupe water.
Unbidden, and unexpected.
A simple act of courtesy to show love and care for my daughter.

And I silently thanked God for providing another mother to watch over my daughter while she and I are so far apart.