Fostering Update and Sick People

Baby D still has visits two times a week. We do not return to court for him until March 16th. At that time, I am hoping that DSS will recommend Termination of Parental Rights (TPR)/Adoption. The Guardian Ad Litem has already told me that she is recommending TPR/Adoption because they cannot follow the guidelines in their case plan. Naturally, it is all up the judge.

I'm really struggling to have a compassionate and merciful heart toward Baby D's birth parents. They have not stopped doing the ONE THING that brought him into DSS custody, and yet they claim to "love their son and will fight for him."

Yeah, actions speak louder than words, honey.

This past week they asked about a mystery bruise on this cheek and if we would send some pictures. Ok, he's almost 8 months old, sitting up and slinging every toy he can get his hands on. I have no idea where he got the bruise. And NO, I will not send pictures. If they wouldn't have canceled the last 6 of 7 visits maybe they would have had time to take his picture.

See, not so compassionate OR merciful, am I?

Baby Girl on the other hand....

I cannot go into much detail but she is not having visits with her birth mom because of certain circumstances. However, she is doing very well and growing. When we go to court on February 9th, DSS is recommending TPR/Adoption. Once more, it's all up to the judge.

Baby Girl's social worker did tell me that she gave birth mom the letter I wrote. However, she hasn't had a chance to speak with her, so I don't know if it had ANY impact at all. I'm just leaving it up to the Lord. I do feel compassion and mercy for this woman, although I cannot explain why.

The Big Sister and Baby Girl



Ashlee Girl giving Baby D his bottle. Doesn't he look THRILLED?

--------------------

As for the health of my family, well, it's a moment by moment update. Just when I think we've finally kicked every germ out of the house and begun recovery, someone spikes a fever or gets explosive diharrea or pukes. I'm just not sure what's going on around here.

Hopefully, some rest, vitamins, homemade chicken & rice soup (thanks Mom!) and lovin' will heal all sickness.

--------------------

Finally, I just HAD to leave you all with this picture of Ash. It cracks me up.