This is for YOU

This post is for all the foster moms and dads out there who wonder how much their little ones remember when they leave.

This post is for all the foster moms and dads who give fully of their hearts, knowing that it will likely break in the process of loving and losing.

This post is for all the foster moms and dads who question whether or not their time together with these little ones even makes a difference. 

This post is for YOU.

Sweet (Z) is now 6 years old. She joined our foster family at 13 months. I still remember those first few weeks vividly, rocking her to sleep and praying for God to give me a mother's love for her. She was a feisty little one with quite a scream, but it wasn't long before she stole our hearts. She and David, just two months apart, also developed a very special bond.

We were blessed to have opportunities to connect with her often after she reunified with her grandmother. She would sometimes stay with us at our place for a weekend, but I think it has been close to two years now. I could be wrong - my memory is horrible. Her memory on the other hand...has left me speechless tonight. 

Bath Time: "Do you still have that little octopus and fish toy?"

How in the WORLD did she remember the toys she used to play with in the bathtub? We haven't had those for years. 

Bed Time: "Can you rock me to sleep like you used to?"

This was so touching. She is 6 years old and she still remembers the way I used to rock her to sleep. I had no idea that it might mean just as much to her as it did to me. 

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So, to those foster moms and dads who are feeling discouraged and wondering if all the pain is worth it....

Even if your little ones can't verbalize it, they DO remember.

Your heart break IS worth it and the way you touch their hearts makes a difference that will never disappear.