She leaves tomorrow...

The preventive worker called to let me know what time she'd be picking up Doodle tomorrow morning.  I can help but be torn...  This is how foster care is supposed to work but the worker said that Doodles bio mom has major mental health concerns.  Doodle came almost a week ago...she was very dirty.  Her mom did not pack appropriately for 4 days let alone a whole week.  The average temperature where we live is around 20-30 degrees where we live. There were no socks in her bag, about 15 baby wipes and 3 different types of formula.  Doodle was very fussy for the first 2 days.  She seemed very uncomfortable.  I called the pediatrician to see which type of formula they had her on (these HIPAA laws stink but thank God for nurses who often deal with foster parents) and I was thankful that there was some of that type of formula in Doodles bag.  I also went out and bought more in case we ran out (we did). She seems to be so much more comfortable and settled.  I know that bio mom has moved 4 times since Doodles birth in November. I can't imagine the life this baby is going home to. I can only hope that we loved her enough and held her enough and sang to her enough.  I'm tired of hearing that I need to lower my expectations for these bios.  This is a BABY! Her life matters. I will write bio mom a note to let her know she can call my cell if she has any needs and I will also let the worker know that we'd be willing to have Doodle back if/when bio mom needs another respite.  Keep Doodle in your prayers <3 em="">

A few more days

Doodle has been with us since Friday.  Today is Monday. Bio mom called once (Saturday night) to check in and make sure she had everything she needs. She didn't ask how she was eating or sleeping.  She didn't tell me to kiss her or that's he loves her.  I thought it was an awkward conversation. I called the preventive worker to check on the status of the respite and she said that bio mom requested a few more days... Well, ok then. She stays :)

Got a call...

It's preventive respite for a 2mo old baby girl...Doodle. She should only be here for the weekend maybe a bit into the week but bio is allowed to take her back at any time. 
How crazy is my life? 

New Year...2016 (baseline)

Wow.  2016.  I remember very clearly in 2005 filling out the paperwork and attending the MAPP trainings.  My SON just turned 5 last month.  I still cherish every moment with him.  He is turning into an amazing little person. I sit back and watch him sometimes and I am still in awe that he is OURS! Our year has started out very quiet.  We usually accept placements in December so this New Year has been very quiet for us.  I have been keeping busy with painting certain rooms of the house, some furniture pieces and finishing crafts that have been accumulating a layer of dust waiting for my free time.  Sprout is in afternoon pre-school so we spend our mornings together.  He has become quite the night owl because of his older siblings.  We had company (family) most of the holiday season and now we're at baseline...back to just us and our (crazy) normal.  I just got a training notice in the mail.  Now that we're back with the county I am anticipating going to the meeting to see who's fostering. Hoping I'll see some old and new faces  :)