I had a great conversation with the girls foster mom today and got the latest scoop on where we're at. The grandmother who appeared wanting to take 2 year old A (but would only take M if her check is big enough) is still in the picture trying to gain custody of the girls. However, the mental health case worker involved with the girls in highly skeptical of her and says that she doesn't see how this woman will prove herself fit to raise these children. The good news there is that the mental health case worker's opinion is the one the judge weighs the heaviest when making his decision. The sad news is that after spending one hour unsupervised (court ordered) with her, M came home in tears. The grandmother would only say "she's fine, she just had a couple episodes". Foster mom has no idea what that meant but is not allowed to press her for details. The girls are supposed to be spending 24-hours unsupervised with her this weekend to gain more info before their next court date next week. I am honestly praying that she will keep it together for the girls and then decide later that she's in over her head. I know, I really need to shift my attitude and pray that the Lord's will be done, whether that's the same as my plan or not!!
The last bits of good news are that all four of the decision makers involved in this case (the judge, attorney, social worker and mental health case worker) all know about us and are very happy we are waiting in the wings until the show is over, so to speak. After the dust has settled with their visits with the grandmother, we are hoping to get together for a playdate with the girls. In talking with the foster mom today, we decided that would be better for the girls than to start playdates now as we had originally planned. We don't want them to be overwhelmed with new environments, faces, etc. Foster mom also told me today that M (age 4) is finally potty-trained! This little girl has gone from being bed-ridden with a serious leg fracture (having never walked prior to this either, mind you), malnourished, not talking or eating and diaper dependent to RUNNING, talking up a storm, eating and drinking normally and potty trained in 3 MONTHS!!!! What a testament to God's grace and an amazing foster family!!!
So, please keep us in your prayers as we continue to navigate these unfamiliar, and rather uncomfortable, waters. We want nothing more than to bring these girls home......and soon!!!
ok, so am I a bad cousin, or have you just been super sneaky about all of this, because I had no clue this was on the table!! I feel awful. Life has been crazy for us lately but that still is no reason not to keep in better touch with you. Let's say we schedule a phone call to talk and catch up on everything?? I love you and I hope things continue to move forward on this. Any child would be blessed that have you as a parent. Truly.
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