My niece has been staying with us since she was 3 years old and she is already 10 this year.. In one way or another, I think I have become her guardian.

I know she has looked up to me as a role model. If I tie my hair in a pony tail, she will too, if I were to tie my hair in another style, she will follow also. When shopping, she likes my recommendation of clothes and shoes and she likes to use my stuff. However, she didn't take after my character. In fact, she is the exact opposite. Whats worse? The older she grows, the more trouble she gets into.

Today, for the second time within a week, she promised to come back at a certain time and then, didn't show up! Her constant lying, answering back and excuses are also making me worried.

I am sure the environment that one grew up in moulds him / her ... but I also wonder if characters are in-born too...or prabably, its in the genes? Her parents are both short tempered, impatient and self centred... I am seeing these in her already. Sometimes, I am fearful of what she will become in future.

Most of the time, I attribute her behaviour to the lack of love and attention from her parents. Sometimes, I feel guilty too - for not spending enough time with her.
When she wants to talk, I am either too busy with my stuff or simply, not in the mood.

I am amazed how Dave has all the energy and patience to talk to her. He is always ready to keep her entertained, though she is talking rubbish. That is also the reason why she grew so attached to him in a short while. He bothers to communicate with her.

As always, I 've learnt lessons from these.

And most definitely, I've learnt from Dave - I respect him for the ways he deal with kids and his patience. I will strive to do better.