Wow, it's been a long while. . .

I have not posted in quite some time. I was a little nervous after reading some other blogs of foster parents, who claimed their workers commanded them to shut down their blogs. I doubt that any of my workers read this, or know it exists, but still. After all, it is the world-wide-web!

There has been several things going on in this household. Dad and I were at a foster/adoptive parent conference last week. While it was great to see new/old friends, I will have to admit that it was not the most enjoyable two days I have ever spent. Some of the training sessions were boring (zzzzzzz) and others were in too hot/too crowded rooms. We did manage to get 1/2 of our training hours in for the next session. So, it was worth it for sure.

OH, and about last week. . . Giggle chose to not go to work on her scheduled evening, claiming she had gone in on the wrong day. She told Angel (respite provider) that she was on her way home. After waiting 1 1/2 hrs., Angel called us on the cell phone (we, too, were on the way home). She wanted to know where we thought she might be. She did finally call and tell her that the boss decided to let her work after all (this was all fabricated). Angel did drive into town, and was able to locate her. She couldn't understand what the issue was, and wanted to "chill out" at the mall with friends. Not a big deal that you disappeared for 2 1/2 hours, and were nowhere near where you said you were!? not a problem!?

Giggle didn't know until after this event that we had already requested her to be removed from our home. After the school incident, verbal altercations, threatening text messages, names given to the police (gee, did I miss anything??) we decided that Giggle was quickly falling back into old self mode, and working against everything that Dad and I were working toward. With lots of consideration and prayer, we decided it would be best for everyone, (including Giggle) for her to find a home elsewhere.

Worker is looking for placement, but in our county, there are hardly any openings. And let's face it, a nearly 17 yr old girl, defiant, poor grades, struggling in school-academically and socially, really doesn't appeal to most foster parents.
At last check (which was yesterday, when our 2 weeks expired) Worker did think she had located an uncle who would consider placement. Camo decided that he did not want to move with Giggle, even if with a relative. He wants to stay here, and keep in the same school. Hopefully we will hear something soon and our hope is that Giggle can be successful elsewhere.

Tiger is still having problems. Yesterday he was told by his daycare worker to pick up his toys, and then reminded again when he wasn't doing it, and he told her "I am going to KILL YOU!". Gee, really, over picking up toys? So, he did not get to participate in the WED night church party. He still got to go, but did not get to wear his costume or participate with the other children. He had to sit by me, and be with me the entire time. He got upset and squeezed and pulled my arm and hand. And I am thinking, this is punishment for HIM or for ME? we made it through this though. All of us.

Firecracker is doing well. On the way to town last night, she said "I CANNOT miss school tomorrow!" when we asked why not? she said "I have a TEST tomorrow!!" I didn't know people got excited about taking tests, but apparently she does.
she continues to do well in school, and just loves learning. She can't seem to get enough, and loves every challenge. Often times she helps Elijah with his homework. The other evening she and Giggle were playing a game, called "What's GNU" and Giggle would ask Firecracker how to spell the words! Firecracker is an amazing speller.

Xman is still playing football, as is Camo. Tonight is the last game. I am kind of glad, because I feel as though I haven't really seen either one of them in the past 6-8 weeks. Oh, wait, never mind...musical theater has already started so I won't see Xman for another month or so. Sheesh. But I am NOT complaining, they are both very focused, and doing well in school (for the most part, Camo has a few struggles...)

Musicman auditioned and was chosen for the mens basketball band at college. Their first game is next week. He is having so much fun, that sweet son of mine. He enjoys life!

And that should bring us up to speed...I think.

Here's to you, Miss J.