Day 5

The following afternoon, Beatrice was trying to figure out how to get more food without any money. She was really scared. Then she heard a familiar voice . . .

“Children! Come out here—HURRY!”

Beatrice couldn’t believe her ears. Is that Mom? Her anticipation grew . . . but then she got nervous. The voice sounded different.

The children cautiously peeked their heads out the front door. There stood a woman in the bright blue dress Mom had left in, but this woman wore a big smile on her face and had a sparkle in her eye. Her nails were even painted a soft color.

“Hello, my children!” Mom exclaimed, as she burst into laughter and opened her arms to them.

“Is this our mom?” Beatrice questioned. She was so confused. This can’t be our mother. But that voice, those eyes—it is our mom!

Mom looked so different. Even her smile was something Beatrice had never seen before.

“Come here and let me give you a big hug,” Leah said to her children.

They looked at each other with wide eyes as they began giggling with joy. Then all four ran toward their mother, wrapping themselves around her in a huge embrace.

• What do you think were some of Beatrice's first thoughts at the sound of Mom's voice?

• Why do you think the kids were all cautious in approaching Mom?

• Can you imagine coming home after 4 days and being so different that your children almost don't recognize you?

• Do you think Mom's change was only physical?