How Could I Forget?

Perhaps it is because I too easily slipped into a more 'normal' life after Anthony's adoption....

Perhaps it is because it has been so long since we have been REAL foster parents...

Whatever the reason, I can't believe I forgot how DIFFERENT fostering parenting is from regular parenting.

* monthly foster care reports documenting every appointment, every bruise, every activity...everything. 

* multiple visits a week: birth family visits, social worker visits, visits to the doctor, visits with the GAL, visits with the CASA

* Family Planning Meetings, court hearings....

Then there is the unexpected..."So and so claimed she saw bruises during the visit." that requires more visits with photographs and such.

Whew.

I'm not complaining at all...please don't get me wrong...I love it and God teaches me so much through it. He has given me a good glimpse into my weaknesses as my patience with the older boys wears thin, is providing me with opportunities to forgive, and has set up circumstances so that I have to rely on Him...every single moment of the day.

It is just a little overwhelming jumping back in...especially with a much larger family this time!

However, I would not change a thing. Not a single thing.

This is a picture of Anthony with 'his baby' in a home-made sling:).