2 years home!!

It has been a lot of work this year. The children are trying to deal with their past and learn about who they are and how to be an active part in their new future. It has been a lot of work for all of us. It is amazing how much trauma these children have witnessed and think is just a normal part of life and the huge adjustment that they have to “Americanize”.  Many times a week we wish we were not out numbered 4 to 1 in the day time and 2 to 1 after 5. Adopting three and already having one at home has been crazy but we love it. It has all been worth it. We cannot think of anything better we can do with our lives.

The best advice we can give is to prepare yourself for all of the issues that you may have with your children. READ, READ, and READ more. Talk to other parents that have adopted older children and learn from their mistakes. Listen when they give advice. Even with experience in parenting my own children, trauma, and psychology of abused children I struggle with decisions on what to do many times. Keep them busy... very busy! Sports, school activities, good friends to visit, ect.

Always keep in mind how great of a thing you have done (or are thinking about doing) by giving a child or children unconditional love and a home. They may have never known this blessing that YOU have given them.

Our blessing for the new year is a new daughter. We hope to travel to bring her home in April, 2013.

Merry Chistmas and many blessings to you and your family for the new year.