Boy: Age 11-13

Yup, you read it write. That's what was written on K's Christmas gift he received at the group home! Ok, it was obviously donated, but would it have hurt for someone to take the time to put his name on it.

Group homes are given a HUGE amount of money to care for these children(about 10 times our board check) and he came here with practically nothing but several shirts and pants that were stained and about 5 sizes too big. It's a good thing we went shopping the first visit he was with us.

K has officially moved in with us today. We met his older brother, who has been adopted a couple years ago. I was so thrilled that his adoptive family let him come for a visit. I had previously heard that they wanted no contact with any of the family, even his brothers. Older brother was very polite and chewed K out on his grades, the way he talked and his baggy pants. We gave him all our numbers so he can call K if he wants. I'm hoping his adoptive parents may be later open to visits occasionally. He lives near my parents so visiting wouldn't be much of an inconvenience for us. I advise all new foster parents, or those considering becoming foster parents to consider open adoptions with the siblings. You don't have to make it legal, but if you could allow them to visit their siblings(especially if they were close, then seperated), they will be so grateful. I know it may not be safe if siblings are with bio parents, but if they are in another adoptive home, go for it!

I hope his younger brother will eventually find an adoptive home too, that will consider letting them visit each other.

I think part of the reason I'm getting the cold shoulder at work is because of K. My principal asked if I was sure I wanted to take him as she looked at his not so perfect school records. She reluctantly agreed to let him come to school there, but we opted for public school. I don't want him to get foster child treatment there.

When you're a foster parent, people will think one of two things:
1. You're a saint
2. You're a psycho

There's really no in between. Unfortunately most people think # 2 of us. How could we take those kids? They have problems, issues.

Well my little 2 year old medically needy, so pitiful, mentally retarded child(all what they told me about Smiley before he moved in with us) is jumping in his bed behind me laughing. Maybe he won't be a rocket scientist, but I couldn't be happier and he is the blessing...I'm not a saint for taking him!