Since my adoptive parents passed away, I've found it hard to say the word "Mom." Even when I thought Mary might be my mother, I couldn't imagine calling her that.

So, calling Phoebe "Mom" just now caught even me by surprise.

Phoebe couldn't form a complete sentence and pulled me into another hug.

Feeling her choke up, I patted her back, holding back my own tears, and smiled. "When I lost that pendant, I thought I'd never find you again."

"Silly girl."

Phoebe ...