The Journey

Surviving

2008-06-18T18:20:00.000-07:00

Surviving is my thought today. It has been a long while since I've blogged, life with eight children has left me chasing my tail. My husband left for a seven month deployment again so I'm in survival mood. Right now I'm just trying to make it through each day with no major catastrophes.

It is hard to be without him, the kids miss him and so do I. It's hard doing it all myself but there is no other choice. I just have to put one foot in front of the other and make myself keep going. With school being out and everyone at home, its tiring. I could sleep for days, or at least until 8 am would be nice. I have early birds who like to get up supper early and Anthony doesn't stop from the time he gets up until he goes to bed at night.

I plan on keeping busy doing fun things with the kids. We have been cooking and baking and playing a lot of card games. Time passes faster when you stay busy. I am looking forward to taking a trip to Georgia sometime soon and visiting the family.

Tip of the day,

Start a compost its good for the environment and those summer veggies. It will help teach your children that everyone can do their part to save the Earth.

Nolan

2008-01-03T07:14:00.000-08:00

Ava and I talked a long time about the past, and her bio parents last night. We talked about adoption, and how choices impact our lives and the lives of others. Why we should never do drugs, because they make you loose everything. I think sometimes those talks are freeing for her to express how she feels about them and lets her express and deal with her emotions good or bad.

Nolan now five and only two the last time he saw his bio parents couldn't have many memories. Could he? This morning I told the boys Ava and I had talked about the bio parents trying to give them an opportunity to express their feelings also. I asked Nolan if he remembered them, and he responded, "Yes".

I asked him what he remembered thinking maybe he would remember the candy bio mom used to bring to the supervised visitation or something he had done at those visits. He responded with, "I remember they didn't want us"..............................

My heart sank to the bottom of my chest. My poor broken child. I least worried about him dealing with loosing parents he didn't remember and being in a safe place for so long now. All I could do was grab him in my arms and hug him. I said, maybe they didn't want you but you know who does. He said yes, "you and daddy".

Tea Party

2007-12-30T08:04:00.000-08:00

I have an amazing friend named Lori who I adore. She had a wonderful idea to take the girls to a tea party at Martha's Tea Room yesterday. It was a fun day out spending time with the girls. Tony stayed home with the boys and Princess Bella, and had a hot dog party and Bella was the guest of honor. She even wore her crown for the occasion.

Lori came and babysat the kids last night and Tony and I went to a movie. We saw P.S I love you. GO see this movie. I loved it so much, bring a box of tissues because you will need them. My head ached from crying during the entire movie. It was a love story at its best. It was the kind of move you cried and laughed at the same time. Well worth your time and money. Loved, loved, loved this movie.

Thank you Jesus

2007-12-21T08:58:00.000-08:00

After all the kids being sick it caught me yesterday. I felt horrible but today is a new day and I'm feeling much better, thank you Jesus. The kids are all out for the holidays and I can't take care of eight kids sick. We've played games this morning trying to occupy the troops. Duck duck goose and musical chairs was the best. They had fun and so did I just watching them. With Christmas just a few days away everyone is over exited to see what is under the tree. Tony is even in the Christmas spirit this year and has been so exited to share the joy of Christmas with the kids.

I am ready to make cookies and I bought lots of decorations for the kids to decorate them themselves. I am going to make the no bake oatmeal also and Aunt Amy's famous chocolate pecan pie, its to die for. I haven't decided what we are having on Christmas day, but I wanted it to be simple. I do not want to spend all day cooking this year. Tony wants a honey baked ham but I can't see spending all that money on something that's just gonna end up in the toilet....yuck!

Tis the Season

2007-12-17T10:51:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since Ive had time to blog. Ive had sick kids for the last two weeks. You name it, we've had it..pink eye, vomiting, Diarrhea, cough, asthma, pneumonia, colds. I am just glad its happened before Christmas so they can enjoy the celebration. Tony and I are so exited to see their faces on Christmas morning.

This what Christmas is all about. God sent his only son, a gift for the world. I always want my children to remember what we are celebrating ,and the reason we give gifts on Christmas. The joy I get from giving is bountiful, and I enjoy every minute of the season. I sent gifts to school with Ava this morning for a needy family. It was a great opportunity to share with my kids how fortunate we are and how God wants us to help those in need. I hope those presents will represent more to those needy children and their single father than just a toy. I hope that they see HOPE, and the love God gave to us through his son Jesus.

Please remember the reason for Christmas this year, and help someone in need. Spread God's love and his sacrifice this year and take joy in giving.

Jewels

2007-12-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

Jewels had her kindergarten Christmas Performance last night. She was so exited that we all came to watch her. She had a speaking part. She said she got the part because she talks loud which, we all new already! She did great it was cute to watch the innocence of five year old children. Like the little girl who pulled up her dress to hike her stockings up. Or the one who did the pee pee dance half way through the show. I will get to see a few more kindergarten performances by the time we get through JuJu. My life is full, and I am so blessed that I get to be part of my childrens lives and be there for the many mile stones to come.

Dreaming

2007-12-04T17:59:00.000-08:00

Two of my children stayed home from school today "sick". They played and ate just fine as soon as that bus rolled away. I guess they just needed a mommy day. JuJu was actually sick vomiting and from both ends... just how I wanted to spand my day. He was fine all day, but only after he got it all out of his system, all over his bed! Even with sick kids I got a lot done. I cleaned out closets making room for more junk that Santa will bring. When you have a lot of kids like we do your dreams change. Instead of lush vacations or diamond rings I dream of getting an extra hour of sleep and bigger closets, two washer and dryers and maybe just maybe a house big enough to stop tripping over kids. At least for now I dream and sometimes dreams do come true! (wink wink Santa)

Soccer

2007-12-03T05:45:00.000-08:00

Saturday was stressful due to a 9 AM soccer game. We even got there early thanks to Tony's military tactics, if your not early your late. Nolan and Anthony played each other, but nobody kept score. We were just glad that nobody had a melt down during the game. Everyone had a ball and just tried to kick it into the net. Nolan scored at least 5 times. Anthony scored only he was playing football running the ball 20 yards and dunking it into the net. He was happy to just be running around. Justice was up next and it was draining. His anxiety was overwhelming and he had a very difficult day. He struggled to understand what he was supposed to be doing and was scared of making mistakes. He was frozen with fear even after Taylor and I tried to just run with him and lead him to the net. His anxiety took over and at half time he clawed himself and Tony. It was heart breaking to the whole family and we all saw it clearly. The little boy who has been let down time and time again, the little boy who was abused and neglected was playing soccer on that field and it hurt to watch. Please pray for Justice he is still struggling.

One Day

2007-11-30T16:09:00.000-08:00

My sister Patty

Have you ever been so tired that all you could think about is sleep? My whole body aches, my eyes are heavy and its only 6PM. Taylor went to a school dance tonight I hope she has a blast. I hope even more that I can stay awake until its time to go back and pick her up. First thing in the morning the boys have a soccer game. First Anthony and Nolan will play each other, and then the next game Justice plays. It will

(pictured left Tony(dh) and Taylor

and my dad)funny to see what Anthony does. The week flew by I was ready for the weekend, but lately it seems busier than the weekdays. With soccer, chores and my grocery store trip Saturday is gone. Ava has a book report due and I guess that takes Sunday. I am ready for a day off, just one day is all I ask. One day to sleep in until noon, and lay around in my P.J's watching home makeover shows. One day with no dishes, laundry or dirty diapers. One day to just be me. I guess I will have to wait about 15 years for that day to come, but then again who would I be without my kids.

Left Bella and Nana

Acceptance

2007-11-27T16:24:00.000-08:00

It's going to be a long week. I am still not feeling well and the kids still have runny noses. Taylor has pink eye or allergies which is making her eyes swell and turn blood red. Tony took the boys to soccer without a fight. I don't blame him its chaotic around the house, with sick kids whining and crying. I finished a book that mama gave me when we were in Georgia. Nineteen-minutes is a novel about a teenager on a rampage. I worried about my own boys when reading it. As a parent of children who are considered "different" it crossed my mind that they could one day be the target of a school yard bully. I thought about what being different meant. We always teach our children to treat everyone the same, but not everyone is the same. Not everyone is going to be the star athlete or the beauty queen. I am afraid Nolan may never be able to reach the water fountain, or his lockers. Justice may never come out of his shell enough to make friends. Anthony may never be able to be in general education with peers his age. Each child very different from the next, but not one falling into the cookie cutter mold the media portrays on a variety of television shows. I will teach my children tolerance and acceptance. Not everyone has to look and act alike. Not everyone has extraordinary talent. Non the less all created in God's image. Everyone of them created to be exactly who they are.

Family

2007-11-26T07:13:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving! I sure had a lot of things to be thankful for this year. I got to spend the holiday with my family in Georgia. The kids had a wonderful time playing with their cousins and eating as much dessert as granny Howell could put on their plates. It will be one for the memory bank in their minds filled with laughter, fun, and love. I am grateful to have such a wonderful extended family who loves our children. A family I miss terribly when I am away from them. Time passes by so quickly that it turns into years before we can find the time to visit with one another. I will be missing them all and awaiting our next visit.

Happy Birthday Baby

2007-11-17T07:44:00.000-08:00

My Baby is three. Julius came to join our family at five months old. I'll never forget the day he came it was not supposed to be forever, but it was. He was dirty and smelled really bad, he had a burn on his foot and lacerations on his legs. It will be etched in my mind for the rest of my life. He has come so far from that little guy. He is witty, stubborn, and the joy of my life. He had a great birthday although he was scared of Diego his new toy. He loved his new fire truck and has had to fight Anthony for it several times. I am very blessed to have another birthday to celebrate with him. I fear that if he would have been left in those circumstances that he may not be here today to celebrate another birthday. Thank you Jesus for protecting my son.

God Spoke To Logan

2007-11-16T06:41:00.002-08:00

What an amazing little boy. Please listen to this Video. I have been struggeling with all of these stories about abuse and children dying at the hands of their parents. They are in God's hands now. Please listen it was eye opening to me. God bless you all.

Logan, the Sky Angel Cowboy!

2007-11-16T06:41:00.001-08:00

2007-11-15T11:37:00.000-08:00

I mentioned yesterday about little Kelsey Briggs, and I wanted to link you to Brian Bonner's blog. It is very sad to read and a tragic story, but it needs to be read. It needs to be on the front of every magazine, every newspaper, every media outlet that can be found. If you have a blog please put a link to this story. You don't have to choose Brian's there are many out there, but let the world know that we will not tolerate a failing system. I have always said that the system is not just CPS, but includes Judges, and attorney's. Kelsey's father's family helped pass the "Kelsey's Law," which improved training of court-appointed child advocates and holds judges more accountable for their rulings in child-placement cases. This law needs to be passed in EVERY state.

ACT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-11-14T13:08:00.000-08:00

This is a great story about how to help foster children. I read about it several weeks before and found this article that explains a little more. Sometimes it just takes one person to say I'll do it, to make incredible changes. Creating a village to raise foster children is what one organization has done. Its called the Tree house and its an amazing attempt at doing something great for foster families.
I have been reading stories about Kelsey Briggs the little blessing that was killed at the hands of her mother and step father. It is a tragic story that I didn't want to read. I didn't want to hear how this child died. I felt helpless, I was angry, I was confused on how this happens time and time again. Why isn't the nation outraged at the judge that sent her home? Why are they not hounding DHS in Oklahoma asking for answers. Micheal Vic the Pro Football player killed a dog. It was a sad tale about this poor dog and it was a cruel and hateful act. He was guilty in the court, and guilty in the media. We heard this story over and over again. I want to know why the media hasn't ran this story. I want to know why our politicians have not launched a massive investigation. Why Kelsey's story is tragic in every way sadly she's not the first and unfortunately will not be the last. Children are being failed by those assigned to protect them. Children have no voice, they can't speak on their own behalf. Its up to those appointed to do so to act. I mean ACT as if this is their child fighting for their life. I mean ACT as if it was their child who was being abused. Stand up and court and say No we can't return this child to an abusive parent. ACT as if children were important! ACT as if their life counted on it because children's lives are counting on them to ACT.

Doing Good Things

2007-11-11T16:49:00.000-08:00

We had such a great weekend. Taylor's team won their game 9-2 she did really well. The kids are so good at the games, they sit and listen and enjoy being together. It was a beautiful, day and actually still HOT. It was 88 degrees it sure doesn't feel like fall. Bella got to see a real pony! There is two horses located next to the soccer complex and we got one to come to the fence. She was amazed, and has not stopped talking about it. Anthony hasn't either, I don't think he noticed the pony, but he did notice the horse poop. He pointed it out to everyone, and continues to tell us about it. Maybe one day he will get over his poop obsession!

I left JuJu here with daddy and took everyone else to church. The new class for children with special needs started today, and it went really well. I am so happy that I found a church that is willing and accepting of my son.

I wanted to spotlight an organization that seems to be doing great things for Orphans, and abandoned children. The saying "It takes a village to raise a child" rings true for these children. SOS is a UK based organization doing great work in Africa. If you have ever considered getting involved with and supporting an orphanage you may want to take a look at By Grace. They offer hands on volunteer opportunities, get involved and make a difference in the life of a child.

Tip Of The Day:

Use liquid dishwasher detergent on stuborn counter top stains (juice). Pour a little on the stain, and in a few seconds wipe away!

CHILD ABUSE IS A CRIME

2007-11-09T09:50:00.000-08:00

Why are abusive parents not prosecuted? If I assaulted a stranger I would be charged with a crime. Most public schools have taken a strong stance on violence, leaving children who defend themselves punishable by criminal charges. We are prosecuting children involved in school yard fights, and letting adult abusers walk free.

What about women who drink and do drugs while pregnant? If a baby is born positive to drugs shouldn't the mother face criminal charges. The child will have to live with the after affect of the addiction for the rest of their life. As my son Anthony, has had to endure on a daily basis as his biological mother drank and used drugs during pregnancy. She has never been held accountable criminally with a fine, or jail time for her crimes.

I wounder if it would send a message to these parents who continue to have multiple children while they have children living in foster care? I wounder if they were sitting in jail and made to pay for their crimes if it would make a difference on the number of children who live in foster care?

Child abuse is a crime. Child abuse is an epidemic in this country. I have been hearing a lot of excuses for abusers recently. It seems that some believe that poverty, drugs, and mental illness are passes to abuse and neglect children. Are they causes that increase the number of cases? Yes. But they are not excusable. They are not acceptable, and they should be met with the same laws that prosecute criminals who assaults strangers. Do we not think enough about life in this country? That is pretty obvious I suppose if you look at abortion issues. Children are not valued and often have no protection under the law.

I believe that prosecuting parents is one of the steps that need to be taken to combat child abuse. What do you think?

Tops Soccer

2007-11-07T09:38:00.000-08:00

I was so proud of my boys last night. It was the first soccer practice for TOPS soccer. Justice was very unsure about playing soccer. His anxiety, and emotional/social delays make simple things like playing soccer seem very scary. He got exited after he put on his cleats and his shin guards. Anthony chatted on the way to the field, "I play soccer",

Nolan got right out there and started kicking the ball. He enjoyed playing and did really good taking turns. Anthony said he wanted to play but instead he ran the soccer field while I chased him. Tony watched the other kids the first half and after I was pooped out from chasing Anthony he took over. This was ADHD at its best. He ran for over an hour never slowing down. He did so much running that he throw up as soon as we came home. Poor kid, ya know his brain must be going as fast as his legs. There were a lot of kids out there with a wide range of disabilities. Tops soccer is for special needs children and helps them to develop skills through sports. I am thankful that they have started a program where all kids are included.

I have to tell you how Nolan corrected Bella, it was the funniest thing ever.

Bella "Get my peter mommy, I can't reach it"

Nolan "He he, that's not a peter Bella, its a pooter"(computer)

I love my kids!

Tip Of The Day:

Make post cards out of food boxes. Cut out a square the size of a post card from a cereal box, drink boxes, or anything that has a cute picture. Dog treat boxes have a cute picture of a dog or cereal boxes often have cartoons. You can recycle and let your kids practice handwritten at the same time. Send grandma and grandpa a post card especially made by your kids.

Like A Venomous Snake

2007-11-05T13:27:00.001-08:00

I feel sorry for people who always think they are right. Sometimes anger gets in the way of clear choices, and words sneak out of your mouth like a venomous snake. The tongue is like a two edged sword and we must speak slowly and cautiously at times. Don't get me wrong I love a good debate, but only when its productive. Only when its about a real topic, not just choice worlds or angry people with nothing better to do with their time. I guess sometimes people thrive on putting others down, but in that I feel they are really the ones who are miserable.

I am on another crusade to get an after school program started in my town in our public schools. Part of the reason is for special needs children who aren't welcomed in traditional Day Care's and part is that its just a good thing for our community. I made a few calls today and I am hoping that the school board will help with this much needed program. It's hard at times to get people to hear you clearly when you have an idea. Sometimes you are judged before they even hear the complete topic. You just have to keep fighting for what you believe in and don't give up on the first try. That's what we try to in steal in our children. Not giving up. Its an important life lesson that our kids have been on the wrong end of. Parents who gave up when the going got tough, parents who cared more about themselves then they did their kids. I always tell my kids I won't allow them to give up. Its important to know when to say when, but its trying and believing that builds character.

When I started this Journey as a foster parent, and later the adoption of seven children I wasn't this tough. I wasn't the women I am today. The love for my children brought out the fighter in me. I became accustomed to speaking on behalf of silenced children. I grew as a women and a mom during the process. I am now thankful for the journey as it has built my character. If someone had told me what hurdles I'd have to jump and that I would make it over. I would have laughed and said, "NO WAY"! God never gives us more than we can handle and I am so thankful he trusted me to handle 8.

Tip Of The Day:

Be pro-active, don't sit back and watch the world pass you by.

Not be Silenced

2007-11-04T06:40:00.000-08:00

The sky was clear and a magnificent shade of blue. Taylor was excited, and a little nervous. She looked so cute. We teased her on the way to the field. She has pretended for years that she was a soccer player, wearing the gear, even wearing cleats and shin guards at home.
"You are a real soccer player"!
And now I am an official soccer mom. We all drug our chairs, and toys to the edge of the field and found a spot to watch number 5 play her heart out. The kids were wonderful. We only had one fit and it was tiny Bella. She was asking to play soccer. I told her that when she was a big girl. She said, "Yes I am a big girl", smiling sweetly. Then she took off running onto the field. Poor tiny girl, she thinks she is 10 feet tall. She just wanted to play soccer. She screamed and kicked when I brought her off the field, but she got over it quickly.
Taylor(11) did amazing, she ran the entire game. She has the heart of a champion! They lost by one point, but they are winners in my book. I was proud of her and I am glad she loves to play sports. Id much rather have her running on that field then sitting at home on the phone.

We attended a support group on Friday for special needs families. The kids had a blast playing at Not Too Little which is an amazing place for young children. I have been on these message boards and forums, mostly adoption.com to much, and it was obvious at the meeting. It seems that we adoptive parents have been put on the defense constantly. Trying to defend the right to call ourselves mothers, trying to explain why adoption is a wonderful thing. Its always the same. It's biological parents, they call themselves first mom's. In my opinion does it really matter, they are so bent on the title. Isn't it up to the child what they are called. Is it a title? Is it earned?
Anyway, I found myself arguing, debating with this women who calls herself an activist. On the coast we do not have sufficient day care. There is not enough room to house children, especially kids with special needs. A member of our support group has started an initiative and she is doing amazing things. I am thankful to her for her efforts. This activist, mind you doesn't have a special needs child, just a big mouth, and she begins to suggest suing. Day cares that are private, can turn down a child with a disability if the child will need extra care that isn't in the budget. I have three special needs children, and I understand this. It is not discrimination. It has nothing to do with our children's disability, it has to do with the extra care, and items needed to adequately care for our children. Most of our children aren't potty trained some of our children, need restraint when aggressive, some of our children are violent, some of our children do not speak and have major communication deficits. An everyday teacher in a day care is not equip to deal with these problems. Why would I want my child at a facility that isn't the best fit. I don't want to force any private daycare to take my children. Americans are sue happy. It doesn't always solve the problem. The girl that is trying to get a child care going through the YMCA is being pro active. She is doing her part.
I found myself getting frustrated with this big mouth, and began to debate her. I had to stop myself and I realized it was due to these message boards. Wow, Ive become a activist in my own right. Constantly trying to defend, and counter the anti adoption world. Trying to make birth mothers see it for what it really is. Trying to convince the world that adoption is a good thing, a blessing. After all aren't we as Christians adopted. It was important enough for God as he adopted us into His kingdom, shouldn't it be important enough to us.
For now I will be careful how I post as not to be offensive to others, but I can't be silent. I can't sit back and not defend adoption, because my kids are my life!

Tip Of The Day:

Shoot for the moon, and maybe you'll hit the stars......

She's Never.......

2007-11-02T07:06:00.000-07:00

Ways to help promote adoption.

Lots of Ideas here at adoption.com and, at Adoptive families. com

Please encourage your Senators and Representatives to join CCA. http://www.ccainstitute.org/ae_domestic.php
Reform for kinship placement is being looked into. Family members who take in a family memebers child does not consider it a community service. Howevere, it is a true act of community service. Those families that take in a relative deserve the same subsidy as any adoptive family.

Lets Celebrate! The National Day of adoption. What can you do?

Post information on your web-site, blog or place of business, myspace, facebook etc. Get the word out.

I just read a blog about this women who gave her child up for adoption, I will not mention the link its not worth it. I commented to her out of anger, probably not the right thing to do, but it made me furious. She had a little side bar, that was negative about the National Day Of Adoption. Why?

She regretted her choice to give her baby up for adoption. She is promoting anti-adoption slogans, and people are listening 40, 000 people to be exact. The way she talks you'd think that every adoption went wrong, and that every adoption was the adoption of an infant from birth. Well us foster parents know that is not the case. My children came to me through foster care. My children were abused and neglected. I tried to keep up with the birth family. I tried! You can't generalize adoption it comes in many shapes and sizes. Sometimes yes it may be flawed, sometimes the birth mothers may be misinformed. OK! I get it, but start there with reform with adoption agency's. Don't use these generalized slogans to bash adoption. She wasn't there the night Jennifer and I took JuJu to the e.r, she wasn't there when Anthony was born positive to drugs. She hasn't stood in court and listen to excuse after excuse about the abuse and neglect that occurred. How dare her? She said she will not be silenced, and neither will I. I will not stop until every child has a loving home, I will not stop until society sees it for what it is. I urge you to not be silenced, I urge you to spread the word. If 1 person out of 500, choose to adopt, we would be able to provide homes for every child waiting in foster care. Four out of ten people have considered adoption, but don't act. If you are considering adoption, contact your local state agency, and get started today. A child is waiting for your love.

Well now that I got that off my chest, I have to tell you about Bella(3). She loves Pony's more than anything, and has several toy pony's. Every night its the same thing, she crawls in my bed with two or three of these little weapons, and I get no sleep as I am bashed in the head all night with pony hoofs. Last night I got this great idea to make the pony a stable. It was late mind you, I was tired, and all I could think about was sleep. Bella could only think about Pony's. I dumped out a little plastic basket I use to hold pony tail holders ironic enough, and told Bella that it was a stable.

"No, its not. Its for cows!"

Ah,

I tried to convince her that it was for pony's and her pony loved her new stable. After 10 minutes, she finally gave in and agreed her pony could sleep in the stable. Finally a peaceful night right! Well instead of pony hoofs, I endured Bella's little hoofs in my back all night. When will I ever get a full night sleep?

Tip Of The Day:

Only buy soft Pony's...........................

I longed for them!

2007-11-01T04:51:00.000-07:00

If you have been reading my blog you know I am thrifty. I try to save money where ever possible to help provide for our eight children. I procrastinated buying Halloween costumes for the kids which paid off. I found them for .50 at Dirt Cheap. I love a bargain. The kids looked cute as can be. We took them to our little down town area to local business for trick or treat. It looked like something out of a movie. If you have never lived in a small town, then you are missing out. There were 100s of people, everyone dressed up even the parents. It was safe, and everyone was having a good time. All the kids behaved wonderfully, we had no melt downs. I had expected at least one of them to cry or whine, but everyone was awesome. Tony even complimented the kids, he usually hates going out all together, because it can be very stressful. The little kids had no problem asking for candy, and JuJu was a pro after the first few handfuls of candy.

Two Halloweens ago, I didn't have Jewel's or Anthony as they had been returned to the bio family. I thought about that last night looking at them all dressed up in their costumes. Oh, how my heart ached for them that Halloween. I longed to see them in their costumes, take them to get treats, and wrap them in my arms and squeeze them tight. I am so thankful, that another day will not pass that my kids are not with us. I am thankful that they are mine, and they never have to be put in harms way again.

Tip Of The Day:

Donate some of that Halloween Candy to your childs teacher for treasure box or rewards.

(thats a lot of candy)

Changes

2007-10-31T10:35:00.000-07:00

Changes!

Where do we begin? It's such a difficult question, but one that is so desperate for an answer. My heart breaks over and over again as I read stories from foster parents. It's always the same story, children being returned to unsafe biological parents. Why?

The most recent heart breaking story had me up late, angry and frustrated over this crazy "system"! The foster family had this child for over three years. Termination of Parental rights had taken place, and then it was appealed. Some idiot Judge over turned the verdict, and sent this child into harms way. Who will be to blame if something happens to this child? Will it be the idiot Judge? No! It will be the Social Worker, who had no control over the situation. CPS isn't always to blame. Who is really responsible for the welfare of children in the U.S.A?

Does any one really care, or are we in denial that this occurs everyday in this country. The ACLU is quick to jump on Christians, or Pro-Life supporters to protect the liberties of the unmoral citizens in our country, however what are they doing to protect the rights of an abused child who has no voice. Why are they not standing in the streets protesting?

I want to shout from the tree tops. I guess unless you have stood on the other side of the bench from an Unhonerable Judge and listen to him/her speak with no regard for the best interest of the child, you could close your eyes and pretend it doesn't happen. Foster parents see it differently and we can't pretend to not see the injustice because it happens to a child we love. A child we have no right to love. A child who only knows us as his/her parent. A child who has been physically and emotional abused and neglected. A child who is counting on us to protect them. A child who is helpless. I child who is desperate for someone to help them.

It is election season and you need to research the Judges you vote for. Support laws that are in the best interest of children. Get involved. Together there is hope. Together we can save a child's life.

Read Wendy's overview on Court Ordered Abuse. Her story is eye opening all though different circumstances, she is fighting to make changes.

picture by

Tip Of The Day:

Pray for foster children!

Are You Making The Grade?

2007-10-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

Picture By *wanderlust* on Flickr

What defines an "involved" parent? A mother wrote me recently and said, if you attend your child's school functions it defines you as an involved parent concerning education. Is that all it takes? Some mothers work full time jobs and can't attend all school functions that are held during the day. Other mothers may miss functions due to having young children at home or a special needs child who would be disruptive to the function. I have missed several due to bus schedules for my younger children. Someone has to be here to get them off the bus. When you have a multitude of children you have to juggle and prioritise.

What contributions are the most important to a child's education?

There are many factors to consider, but I am going to just name a few that I feel are important.

Parent involvement is vital, but not in a "I am IN-VOLVED", because I attend a class party kinda way. More than that you teach your child education is important by showing them its important.

a. Helping your child with homework, and insuring that assignments are being done will in steal good study habits, and tell your child that you care about what is going on in school.

b. Setting limits on bed time to make sure your child gets adequate sleep

c. Making breakfast a part of your routine to give your child a good start.

d. Having contact on a routine basis via phone or e-mail with your child's teacher.

e. When you can't attend the school party or function, help out by sending in items, your child will feel involved by the contribution.

f. Talk about IT! Ask about your child's day, look at their accomplishments. Reward good grades, and display projects that your child has worked hard on completing.

Justice
Ava & Jewels Anthony & Nolan

Tip Of The Day:
Use A desk size large calander to keep up with homework and activities for your children. I hang mine low enough for the kids to see, and add tasks themselves. I use two cup hooks and there you go. Great way to keep up and teach the kids the art of organization.

Good Mornin!!!!!

2007-10-29T05:39:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! It is Monday and remarkably I have energy. I am taking Jennifer's advice about taking time for me. I got every body up early this morning giving myself a few extra minutes to jump in the shower and get dressed before the boys bus arrives. I usually throw on what ever to get them on the bus, but not today. I put on my new cute as can be jeans, and a nice black sweater(I got at the thrift store) and I felt so good, I danced all by myself in the living room to the music that filled my head.

I received a strange phone call last night. It was from four of my children's bio grandmother. I have never spoken to this women and was in shock. I told her about the kids, she knew nothing about them, its been three years since she has seen them. She says she tried to get them out of foster care, but was denied. Her son is my children's bio father and is wanting to talk to me about the kids, and see how they are. I have spoken to him one time and he was very nice on the phone, and said "Thank You". That makes me want to send pictures to them. I am not in denial that they are their bio family, but I have some reservations also. I will post more about this if I hear from bio father. I wonder if any other adoptive parents out there are going through similar emotions about contact with the bio families?

The Root Of It All

2007-10-28T10:47:00.000-07:00

I got to sleep in today! Tony let me rest this morning while he made breakfast(cereal) for our crew. He got his grape scraped as he calls it(hair cut) and I tried to get some laundry folded. I finally bought some new clippers, and I am going to attempt to cut the boys hair today. Tony is not brave enough to let me cut his, but the boys don't have a choice. When you have a large family sometimes you have to cut corners and this is one of the ways we save money. I have gotten pretty good, I screwed up a few times and they looked like little prisoners when I was done. Anthony is horrible when I cut his hair and we both finish in tears.

The weekends are very relaxed around our house, the kids barely get dressed. You can see from the pictures I took. Yes, some of them are in the P.J's. They played so hard yesterday. More wrestling on the trampoline. Then Taylor got the idea to have piggy back races. They get really creative when they play. I am glad they enjoy playing outside, it beats them sitting in front of the t.v any day. It helps them be creative, and use their imagination not to mention the exercise they get with all that jumping and running around. I wish we had a bigger yard, but for now we just have to be thankful for what we do have, and that is each other.

Jennifer and I had a long talk last night about the reasons so many kids are in foster care. This came after she read a blog about a lady who got her child removed and was fighting CPS. We need to get to the root of the problem. Fix it before they enter care. We don't have enough homes to place all these kids. Why not try to combat it before they enter the system. I will be blogging more about this again, but its so big I can't wrap my brain around it yet.

I always love a bargin

2007-10-27T12:52:00.000-07:00

Taylor and I have been shopping all day. We started with garage sales and then hit two of my favorite thrift stores. I found a lot of great deals, and I even splurged and bought myself a few new pairs of pants. It's the only way we can afford clothes for my eight kids. I love finding bargains, like the areopostle shirts and the gap and old navy shirts I found for Ava(7). I even found some stocking stuffers still in the package for my little ones. One of the stores you get to fill a bag for 10 bucks, I got 14 items and I thought that was a steal! Its like a treasure hunt to see what treasure lies beneath a pile of junk, and there it is. The name brand hoody, you know, from that expensive store that's ads are of half naked teenagers. I have gotten quite a bit from that brand at the thrift store and I only spent 2 dollars verses the usual 50 dollar price tag.

Tony was at home with the kids all day, and as soon as I got home, he left to go get his hair cut. I am sure he was ready for a break. I sure needed one. It was nice to spend some alone time with Taylor. Now its back to breaking up fights, changing diapers, and fighting with JuJu to stay out of the fridge.

Tip Of The Day:

Don't throw out those old clothes when your children out grow them. Instead, take them to a consignment store and trade them for the next size.

What is Family Anyway?

2007-10-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

Poor Lady! I met a lady who is going through a very difficult time. She is on the verge of having her foster baby returned to the Bio family. My heart brakes for her as I know all to well of the pain she is going through. I don't understand why these child abuser parents have any say so in where there children end up. Why do they get to have any input in the where abouts of the child they abused and abandoned.

What is family anyway? Is it genetics that make you a family? Adoption in many cases, is the blending of a child into a family that is in no way genetically linked to the child. How can Children's Services feel so strongly about adoption, but then deny the bond the child shares with their foster family. I have heard about cases where children have been placed with a family for years only to be ripped away and placed with a relative. I do believe that we should try to keep children with their biological families when possible, but why does it takes some of these families years to come forward? What is the impact on the child? We wonder why so many adopted children have attachment/bonding issues.

The idiots running these programs need to get a clue. They don't care what the best interest of the child is. Children have no rights. Take a day and sit in a family court. Listen to the judge as he sends kids back to abusive crack addicted parents. Listen as the case worker agrees with the return. You will see very quickly that the "system" is on the side of the parent. I am not saying that Children's Services is, but the laws are. I would love if a Judge came and spent a day walking in the foster parents shoes as they watch their foster child scream when handed to the biological parent at visitation. Or when the child wakes up with a nightmare that they had to leave. Foster parents feel helpless. At one point I called our Judges office, Judge Carl Lewis and asked if foster parents had the right to speak. His secretary told me NO, that foster parents couldn't speak on behalf of the child because all foster parents wanted to do anyway was adopt another families children.

I got so tired of hearing about the "system" I could scream. We vote for these judges. Please take time to find out about some of their cases. We do have the power to make changes, but some of you that are in the system need to stand up to the wrongs, and stop passing it over as the "system problems". We are the system. Stand up and be heard.

Now that I've ranted and raved I feel better. I had to just get it off my chest. It brought back so many feelings of frustration during our Journey. I am so thankful that it is over. I have a new Journey now, its how to keep up with laundry for 8 kids.

Tip Of The Day

Get your kids to help around the house by letting them use safe cleaning products.

Use equal parts vinager and water in a spray bottle, it makes a great all puruse cleaner.

Shave N Ceam (Foam) does wonders on carpet stains

And don't forget the baking soda it works great on your sinks.

Pro Adoption/Pro Life

2007-10-25T17:56:00.000-07:00

I read an interesting post today on one of the adoption forums that I am a member of. The post was written by an adult adoptee. She talked about how blessed she felt to be adopted. Her birth mother made the choice to give birth and not abort her child. She was born before Roe Vs Wade which made abortion legal, not giving her mother an option to have an abortion. She was thankful to have been given life. Norma McCorvey and Sandra Cano, the two women who were involved in the Roe vs Wade case are both pro life today. Mrs. McCorvey did not have an abortion and gave her child up for adoption. The case was based on a women's right to choose since Mrs. McCorvey had been raped. She later confirmed that this was a lie, she had not been raped, but had an affair leading to her pregnancy. I wonder what happened to the child she gave up for adoption, does she know that her mother wanted to abort her, to murder her? I wonder who she grew up to be?

I am thankful that my children's birth mother made the choice to give birth. I am so thankful that they did not choose abortion.

We are leading up to the National Day of adoption Nov 18. We together can make a difference on the number of children who get adopted in this country. Share your story with someone. Let the world no that our children are wanted, that abortion doesnt have to be an option. You can take a look at any adoption forum and there are thousands of waiting families to adopt infants. There are over 4,000 children available for adoption right now in the U.S waiting to be adopted in our foster care system.

Tip Of The Day:

To freshen up your pillows put a fabric softener sheet in the pillow case. You can also throw one in your dresser drawer. It will leave your pillow and clothes smelling great!

Hope

2007-10-24T11:19:00.000-07:00

When we became foster parents we new we wanted to adopt. We never imagined that we would be the parents to so many children, and be parents to three with special needs. I even remember saying that I could never do it. I hear those words often from other prospective adoptive parents today. I have learned that love doesn't have any boundaries. I have written several post about Anthony(4) concerning his behaviour, but today I get to give some good news. He had a wonderful day at school! He even came home with treasure box. Mrs. Lori said that they were all very exited about his vocabulary today. I noticed this first thing this morning. As I put batteries in his fire truck, he got very exited and started to jump up and down. That is not unusual because he expresses a lot through his body language, like when he's mad he hits you clear upside the head, or throws what ever he can reach and he has an impeccable aim. As he jumped he smiled, and said,

"Happy"!

Wow, I have learned to see the little things as a parent of a special needs child. When your child is a new born you notice every little milestone. The first time they roll over, or smile, or when they learn to suck on a bottle or hold their blanket. Those little things seem so big to a new parent, but sometimes as your child gets older you forget about those little things that your child accomplishes. If you are a parent of a special needs child you notice the little things. For a four year old to express his emotions by saying happy would have flew past most parents, but it was a show stopper for me. I wanted to jump up and down with him and say,

"Happy, Happy!"

Instead of dweling on the negative we have to learn to celebrate the little things. Anthony expressed his emotion of happiness by using a simple world. Happy! But it was far from simple to me, I saw hope.

Tip Of The Day
Don't waste money on paper plates for snack time. Instead use coffee filters. They are much cheaper and the kids will love having their own paper bowl. Fill them with popcorn, pretzels, or your childs favorite treat.

Fall Again

2007-10-23T12:58:00.000-07:00

The rain finally stopped! Anthony had a bad day at school again. You never know what the day will hold. Bless his heart, he just can't help it. As frustrating as it is too us I can't imagine how he must feel. Vital lesson for those of you trying to conceive why you shouldn't drink or do drugs while you are pregnant. It is a life long affliction that mothers cause to their Innocent babies. I could get very angry at Birth mom some days for the pain she has caused MY son. I love him so much and my heart hurts for him. I really can't imagine having him any other way, but the way he is just now. He is a special child, but not because of his special needs, but because he is Anthony my son.

Fall has surely arrived and it has turned cool. It's time to pull out all the winter clothes I've been storing. During the summer I got frustrated with my mounds of winter boxes, but I am sure thankful today that I saved them. Everyone passes down to the next child, that is except Nolan and Bella. I don't think they will ever grown into any ones clothes. I shop at our local thrift store for most of my children's clothing, but I have been blessed to have Jennifer, and Mrs. Dana donate clothes to my troops also.

I will be posting the tip of the day on my blog. If you decide to try one out, please send me a picture by e-mail and I will post it. Let me know what you think of the tip. I will also be posting recipes and craft ideas. Please let me know how they turn out and don't forget to send a pictures of your projects. If you have a tip you would like me to share just send me an e-mail.

Tip Of The Day:

Don't throw out those old markers when they dry out. Instead, let the kids paint with water. Dip the tip of the marker in water and let their imagination run wild. Recycling is a great way to teach our kids how to protect the environment, and painting is always fun.

Protecting Our Children

2007-10-22T17:54:00.000-07:00

If you are like us and have a house full of kids you need to think about the future. Nobody ever wants to think about the bad and the what ifs, but having eight kids makes me think about it a lot. How would Tony ever survive if something happened to me. He'd be grey or bald and probably have a mental breakdown trying to raise all these kids. As mothers we need to protect our children. After all, isn't that what we are doing, by fostering and adopting, protecting children. I wanted to have peace of mind knowing that if something ever happened to me we had insurance to help Tony raise our kids. It is time to get an insurance quote. I am such a frugal mom and I need the cheapest rate. With so many children y'all know I only go out when I have to. I love the idea of getting an online quote and never having to leave the house. Especially in the weather we've been having. It has rained cats and dogs all day. I was hoping it would stop long enough for the kids to go outside and play, but we were trapped in the house once again. Bed time came early tonight!

Untill Then

2007-10-22T06:13:00.000-07:00

"It can't be 6:22,"

I listened to the alarm for twenty two minutes before I actually heard it go off this morning. Justice missed the bus again. Bella kept me up all night climbing onto of my head. She must have been dreaming and something was obviously chasing her.

Anthony was very wild this morning, and I had no back up. We are having bad weather and so the satellite is out. I couldn't occupy him and Julius and so they ran a muck! Julius didn't like my idea about reading a book, and when I handed it to him he threw it across the room. Yes, I made him pick it up and refused to let him get another one. The rain continued, I could hear it pound on the drive way, and rush down from the roof. I love the sound of rain, but this morning it just made me sleepier.

Yes! The bus has arrived. Mrs. Mary our dear sweet bus driver took Justice to school for me. I ran back inside trying not to get to wet. Peace, six are at school and now its quiet. Then I notice JuJu. Three more years and they will all be getting on that bus together. Until then I will drink fifty cups of coffee and continue my blog therapy.

Blog for Money at blogsvertise.com

2007-10-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

Writing this blog has become my therapy. I take everything from the day, and put it all down...on paper. I am thankful that I have been able to touch my readers, and encourage those of you who were on the brink of giving up on adoption or foster care. I am blessed that God has given me such a big mouth and is allowing me to use it. As my about me section says, I'm always looking for a way to make life better for my children. One way I am attempting to do this is by contributing to our income. I have found that a lot of my readers have blogs of their own, some of you have thousands of readers and could benefit from blogsvertise, It is an amazing way to add income to your family. I have looked at a lot of advertisement, as you may have noticed I put some adds on my site which I have made a whopping .44 cent. This site actually pays you between 5-15 dollars. Doesn't seem like much but when you are raising eight kids like we are, every little bit helps. Go check it out for yourself at http://www.blogsvertise.com/, and let me know what ya think.

Ask yourself this........

2007-10-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how you can help without raising umpteen kids like Tony and I. I have found that casa has a program that has A minimal about of involvement, but a tremendous impact. You can be a friend of the Court Appointed Special Advacate without being a CASA. They need people to help promote, make coffee, stuff stockings for Christmas and an array of other important task to help these volunteers be a voice for children. It is so very important for everyone one to get involved with the crisis of our Foster-Care system. It is a societal problem that needs everyone to help solve.

What a way to teach our children the importance of giving back. Sometimes we surround our self with the falsified world of the "everything is hunky dory", but that's just not real life. There are kids out there who don't have a bed to sleep on, or food to eat. Forget about Christmas presents, or new clothes, or hair cuts. Everyone has something they can give, used clothes, a toy for tots, a few minutes a month wont kill you. It will improve the life of your own children and give them the joy of helping someone in need.

Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife have a great charity to help Orphans around the world be adopted. You can start a contribution jar, at your church or place of business. Can you imagine if every church in the country got involved in helping kids become adopted. Wow, what a different world we would live in. Don't forget these forgotten children grow up and become adults, they fill the jails in this country and I'm sure its not much different in other jails around the world. We are so blessed! We have so much! We live in our big house, drive our fancy car! Wear our fashionable clothes! Spend $8 on a movie! And yet are to selfish to get involved. Is it harsh? Yes! Is it reality? Yes! Ask yourself, What am I doing to help? God clearly defines his position, please read the following verses, listen and follow where God leads you.

There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.Deuteronomy 15:10-12

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.James 1:26-27

Im so very greatful for..............

2007-10-20T11:28:00.000-07:00

I recently joined an online group of mothers that share in the journey of being a foster or adoptive parent. All of us have experienced the emotional roller coaster at some point or another. I responded to a reader, who was struggeling after her eight month old foster baby was placed in an adoptive home. I told her I knew the pain she was feeling, but she must go on. You have to pick up the peices and save the next child. It's easier said than done, but if she stops then the child waiting will wait loner. It is not easy to love a child so deeply then send them on their way. Jennifer who is my best friend in the whole world is expereincing that pain as we speak, playing the waiting game to be reunited with her children. It is not for the faint of heart, but the pain is all worth it in the end. The love for a child can't be replaced with anything else in this world.
Another young mother in this group of moms posed a question regarding if it was fair that her friends get paid to adopt. Paid? Is she insane. We do recieve a subsidy every month to help with expensise. It is not enough to raise a child that is why my husband works. If we were becoming rich off the adoption we'd be sitting home in a large house planning our next vaccation. Instead, Tony works his butt off, and we barely survive, stepping over each other as we share the bathroom. I tried to explain to this mildly stupid women, who doesn't have a clue that offering a subsidy helps children to be adopted. Yes, it does help, to most Americans who are one paycheck away from poverty they could never consider adopting a child without help. Is it fair? Yes, if it means that one child can finally have a family to call their own, then we should do what ever it takes. We spend approximately 1,000.00 a month on food. Then another 100.00 a month on school, IE field trips, supplies, etc, another $200.00 on clothes and shoes. Don't forget about hair cuts, shampoo, tooth past, and other toiletries. Soccer for one child is $75, but for eight its $600.00. They constantly need money for something. Snacks to share with their class that is mandatory, extra curriculum activities for school. Eight birthday parties, and don't forget all the one's they are invited to. We spend an average of 300.00 more for utilities then we would if we only had one child. We have a larger car so it takes more gas, and cost more a month than a small compact. After all is said and done each month there is nothing left of that subsidy check that I am so grateful for. We could not begin to afford to provide for such a large family on military pay.

Rushed

2007-10-19T10:15:00.000-07:00

The day started in a rush, Justice sat in front of the T.V watching cartoons when he was supposed to be getting ready for school. I didn't have time for errors this morning, and through him his clothes, and told me to get ready before he missed the bus. He cried, and I felt bad. He is so sensistive you have to be carefull how you aproach him. He did almost miss the bus, but she waited, and then I remembered his show and tale.

"Wait you forgot your show and tale!" I screamed from the door waking the two youngest boys up. Great, now I will never be ready. They played in their room for about 15 minutes while I made my coffee, and got Ava and Jewels started. I could hardly push their door opened. They managed to get the mattress off the bed and were jumping on it like the trampoline. Taylor refused to get up, but she knew when I started singing, she'd better get out of the bed. I sing a song I learned when I was about five

"Then God told Noah there's gonna be a floody, uddy". And if she doesn't get up after the second verse, she gets first hand experience what a flood would feel like. I got Ava and Jewels off, and then started with the boys. By eight o'clock I was tired. Bella looked so cute this morning I couldn't resist taking some pictures of her in between racing around the house like a crazy person. We hurried to Jewels school for a SAT meeting. Bella talked the whole time, I'm glad it didn't last long. Now they can get started with testing Jewels for speech. We braved dirtcheap looking for Halloween costumes. I found two, and I only paid six dollars for both of them. I will take the big kids later and let them pick out their own. I had time to sit down and eat lunch before the bus gets here with Nolan and Anthony. I'm ready for a nap, and I am glad its Friday.

Soup's On

2007-10-18T16:54:00.001-07:00

Soup is a cheap and an easy meal to feed a large family. I made home made chicken soup tonight for dinner. I used what I had on hand,

2 chicken breast cubed and browned

3 potatoes, peeled and sliced

1 can of corn

1 small onion

2 garlic cloves

and plenty of seasoning. I like to use Adobe, made by Goya. The girls helped make a wonderful Greek Salad and corn bread for our sides. Taylor is great in the kitchen, she loves to cook just like I did when I was her age. Its math and science all rolled into one, not to mention a great bonding time to be together. I have a lot of great memories cooking when I was a child. I got a front row seat right on the kitchen counter of granny Howell's kitchen. Mama is a great cook to, and my kids have already learned that when we go to Nana's we are going to eat good. I love making these memories with my kids, one day they will be able to talk about sitting on my kitchen counter.

Can I play?

2007-10-18T06:05:00.000-07:00

Taylor had her first soccer practice today. She skipped around the house, smiling from ear to ear. While Tony and Taylor went to practice me and the kids played in the yard again until dark. Anthony was very calm today, too calm. He had focus, and he was focused on going outside.

"Go Outside,

That is all I heard for two hours until finally giving in and going outside. Mrs. Jennifer sent them a box full of goodies. They took their new toys outside to play, Justice had remembered some of the toys from when he lived with the Clement's family in foster care. It brought back good memories to my kids of the joys they experienced as part of the Clements crew.

After all that begging to go outside, Anthony sat beside me the whole time, whining to go back in. It was overcast and to him, it was dark, he was afraid it would rain, and that sends him straight into a panic.

Ava started to spin the teeter totter, I thought JuJu would eventually go flying through the air. He held on for dear life, laughing the entire time. They took turns spinning round and round. That was the best forty dollar investment I've ever made, I got it at K-mart about six months ago and they have played on it everyday. It made me want to play too!

Bath time is so much fun

2007-10-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

Anthony never slowed down yesterday, and thank you Jesus he got on the bus at 8:15 this morning. We did get to play outside yesterday, so they played until dark. We came in like always heading straight for the bath. All four boys squeezed in the tub and played for about 30 minutes. I love watching them play. Anthony washed his mustang fifty times, and Nolan purred water on JuJu's head. Justice was mad at me, because he wanted me to take a picture of spider man. I wanted a picture of Justice. He is stubborn sometimes, and gets mad if he doesn't get his way. They were out of the bath and in bed by 7:30. We were pooped, and I still woke up this morning tired!

Playing in the Rain Sounds Like A Good Idea

2007-10-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

Poor Anthony, Ive had a time trying to get his prescription filled. He is going one hundred miles an hour. It caused him to have a bed day at school. Julius is just as impulsive, and I am afraid he may also suffer from the FAS in a smaller degree. He has refused to take a nap today, and continues to misbehave. Of all days for it to rain! I guess we will be trapped in the house watching Anthony bounce from wall to wall. On second thought maybe we will play in the rain!

Smore's

2007-10-15T05:57:00.000-07:00

The kids are back to school today. Its been a long five days with everyone home. We had a good time, but I'm ready for the bus to come get Anthony this morning. Saturday we roasted marshmallow's and hot dogs by the fire pit. IT reminded me of my childhood sitting by the fire roasting hot dogs, or daddy's famous oyster roast. The next day we went outside and Jewels yelled,

"Hey, who left the smore on the trampoline?"

Taylor replied,

"Hey, can I have that?",

I replied,

"Ewe that's gross its been sitting on the trampoline all night?"

She would have ate it too, if I hadn't been sitting there.

The stars

2007-10-11T08:28:00.000-07:00

The sky was filled with stars, it was amazing. We played outside until after dark last night. Anthony saw an airplane fly over, and ran into my arms. He is still scared of noises and with nightfall it made the noises already amplified in his mind very scary. I showed him the stars as he laid in my lap, he was still convinced that it was a airplane and not a star. The stars were placed one by one in the sky hand picked by God, just as he had hand picked my eight children who were running, laughing and playing all over the yard. I am so blessed and thankful for my children. I would be an empty sky without them.

Grits

2007-10-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of fall break, and all eight kids are home. Believe it or not, it is almost nine and Anthony is still asleep. The day has started out with great news. Jennifer got the confirmation she had been waiting on. Thank you Jesus for answered prayers.

I am making the biggest pot of grits you've ever seen, cheese grits Taylor's favorite. All the kids have adapted to my Georgia cooking and now love grits as much as me and Taylor. I sure am glad, cause it is so cheap to make when your cooking for a large family. Julius already tried to make his own breakfast, he got into the fridge and was sneaking bologna. This is a everyday occurrence but, usually its the coffee creamer.

Squeeky

2007-10-08T07:12:00.000-07:00

I put a call in to ARC this morning trying to get information for our support group for special needs families. They seem like they will be a wealth of information and support. They have education specialist that are dealing with No child left behind. I feel like we may have a chance to make changes to the act, but only if enough people are willing to get involved. The majority of parents do not see the impact, as it seems from a far that this is a great thing for our schools accountability. I am bound and determined to help bring changes before Anthony enters third grade which is when he will have to take the test. You can call your Senator and Governor and ask them to support the reform bill. The squeakiest wheel gets the oil and I plan on being very squeaky.

Anthony's poop obsession

2007-10-07T16:42:00.000-07:00

Jennifer said it best, "the weekends get in the way of my life". It's so hard to get anythings done with 8 kids at home. The weekends used to be a time to relax and rest, or get things done that I couldn't get to during the week. Now it seems like all I do is race around the house chasing kids, and trying to keep my sanity. Me and Taylor did manage to go to wal mart without all the kids today, so I got a little bit of a break. The rest of the afternoon was spent outside watching the kids play and swim. Anthony drives me crazy looking for dog poop, I've never seen a child so obsessed with poop and trash. It worries him sick, and he won't stop until Justice cleans it up since it is his job. All of the kids were having a great time in the pool except Anthony cause he was to busy looking for poop sure that Justice had overlooked some. I guess I should be thankful that he is wanting to clean it up, and is no longer playing in his poop like he did all summer.

Cruisin

2007-10-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

Today was the day that Taylor has waited for all week. She was going to a birthday party, her first sleep over. It makes me nervous leaving my children anywhere, but I have to trust that she will be OK. With Taylor not here we could all fit in the same car and decided to drive down the coast. It is cruising the coast weekend and the first time we have attended. Who knew it was such a big deal. There were thousands of people up and down hwy 90 to take a peek at these unique cars. Most were classics and of course we were looking for Mustangs. Ava pointed out everyone she found making sure Justice had seen it since he is an avid mustang fan. We stopped at raising cane's for dinner, drive thru of course since we had 7 kids in the car, they have the best fresh squeezed lemonade ever. What goes better with classic cars then lemonade.

Growing up

2007-10-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

Taylor went to another dance tonight with her friend Lily. She even danced, can you believe it? My little tom boy has turned into a girl. She is growing up way to fast and it hurts watching it. I miss those days when she was a baby. She never left my side, and now she is going to dances and has her first boyfriend. Do you remember the check yes or no notes? Well this boy wrote one of those and Taylor seems to really like him. She even gets exited about going to school and has started doing her math homework with no question. He is in her math class so he must be the motivation behind this. I wish we could keep them little forever, but then again its amazing to watching them grown up. She is a good girl, and I am so happy to be her mommy.

Reform for Anthony

2007-10-05T04:34:00.000-07:00

It is friday and it is much needed. I am ready to rest and take a few days to relax. Last night me and Jennifer spent the day on the phone writing our story. It is going to be a must read. There were a few parts that have been difficult to write filled with emotion and almost like I was writing about someone elses life. Yesturday I felt like I accomplished something even with my 12 loads of laundry left to do. I spoke to my congressman, and 2 Senators offices asking them to help reform No child left behind. It is a difficult thing for special education students to have to go through and unfair in many ways. I have only begun to touch the surface of my journey to help bring reform.

I may have ADD

2007-10-03T18:21:00.001-07:00

I was just reading http://www.lilraskels.blogspot.com Jennifer's blog it was about trying to concentrate among the noise in our children filled houses. I find it hard to focus on a daily basis and I often jump from one task to another. I today for example , made so many phone calls trying to get information on the No Child Left Behind Act and how it effects our special education students. Next thing I know I'm calling back to talk about something that happened on the girls bus. I must have called that principal 4 times today, she's bound to think I'm crazy. From that I emailed my Senators to reform the Act, and after that I had the notion to go the bank and pick up some half dollars. I found a 1917 Walking Liberty, great find. Now back to my point my mind does skip around a lot but even with that said, I do get something accomplished in any given day. It may be only partially complete before I jump to the next thing but, "What was my point to this story"?

Sleepless in Missisippi

2007-10-02T12:02:00.000-07:00

My poor baby boy was so sick last night. I heard someone cry about midnight assuming that it was Anthony I peeked in the door only to find him sound asleep. Julius was crying and I knew that something was wrong, he sounded like a dog barking at the moon, "oh no the croup." I think all of the kids have had the croup at some point, but JuJu was just pitiful. I ran into the living room which has become the only place Tony can sleep, probably because I usually have several children in our bed. "Something is wrong with JuJu", he needed a breathing treatment. Tony helped me find the xopenex and after about 10 minutes he seemed a little better. I gave him some medicine for the cough and for the pain and me and JuJu sat in the bathroom floor with the shower running and let the steam fill the room. I took him into my bed and propped him up on a few pillows trying to ease his breathing, his cough persisted. He threw up 2 times in my bed. Now I have to try to keep him calm and bath him, get clean sheets and, wash the linen that he has just puked on. Finally, quiet he fell asleep, as I watched him and monitored his breathing A memories sent me back in time to when he was just five months old. I watched his breathing like this shortly after he came to live in our home after being taken from his bio mother. I sat up most of that night praying and rocking. I wasn't only praying for him to feel better that night, but I was praying that God allow this child to be my son. He will turn 3 next month and the time has gone by so quickly. I took him to Urgent care just after starting this post his breathing again had scared me. The Dr. prescribed him an antibiotic and something for his cough and I feel better now that I took him. It is often that I go back to those memories the emotions are too strong, but today I felt as if I was there all over again. The big difference today, is that I know what I would have missed if I didn't dance, My Julius.

Kudos to Daddy

2007-10-01T19:22:00.000-07:00

I have found that Anthony is becoming more and more engaged in books. He is adamant that he is read to every night and not just any book but the vegetale book that he has heard every night for the last 3 weeks. Tony reads to the kids nightly but usually he just makes up the words and replaces the characters names with our little characters. This keeps all they kids entertained, anxious to see what part they will play in the story. Kudos to Daddy for reading every night to our children. I hope this will be a tradition that will be around for a long time to come.

Nolan's fight

2007-09-30T18:55:00.000-07:00

Finding a church that is accepting of my large family and that can accommodate my children with special needs is a challenge. Yesterday I attended a local Baptist church with my 5 oldest children. Leaving daddy at home to attempt to watch the game while chasing the three terrorist I mean youngest children. In the normal large family fashion we arrived late, and then had to take each child to their Sunday school class. Nolan's teacher greeted us at the door we had been escorted by a church member to help me get all the children where they needed to be. The teacher began to question our escort about Nolan's age. I could hear in her voice that she was concerned that he did not belong in the 4 yr old class. I finally spoke up and said "yes he is 4." She continued to question and suggested the toddler class, and I again protested "NO he is really 4." She obviously could tell that I was getting frustrated and was not going to change my mind about him belonging in the 4 yr old class.
OK, like I would really be so determined that my child belong in a class that he didn't belong in. I was very offended and reacted strongly to her firm stand on Nolan not belonging in her class because I am his mom, and I have to. I understand that he looks like a 2 yr old but the fact is he will be 5 next month. To the average person they see my 24 pound child who wears 12 month clothes and can't imaging that he could be almost 5. I understand that it is a shock, but it is the truth he really is 4. Needless to say he cried the entire time and I had to take him into church for the second hour. Which was fine with me because I am sure that he sensed that he was not wanted in the class. They suggested that I take him to the 3 yr old class the next Sunday we come. Obviously a loosing battle to help Nolan just to be a normal little 4 yr old boy who happens to be small. It was hurtful to me and it was hurtful to my son.

The peanut gallery stikes again

2007-09-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

It was time for new shoes for the boys, outlet mall here we come. We found Nike on sale for $10. Great price and cute shoes. Everyone was well behaved and did great. We got the typical comments from the peanut gallery about our multitude of children. You'd think they'd never seen kids before. Julius and Bella have refused to take naps today, and by the time the house got quiet Anthony decided to wake up. Never a dull moment but I wouldn't change a thing.

2007-09-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

Our first meeting for parents with children with special needs was great. There were at least 25 families most with Autistic children. The kids had a great time playing while we talked about issues and gathered information about initiatives to start a child care facility for special needs kids. There was a unspoken common bond between us, some even finishing sentences for others while speaking knowing what the next word would be. We have all been there in some form or another, trying to make sense of our children's disability. Many mentioned the denial phase and I think Tony related. It is a coping mechanism, denying there is anything wrong. Making excuses, common excuses being maybe my child can't hear and that's why he is not speaking.

We met a Rn who attended with her children the youngest being 19 months old, who has a rare form of dwarfism. I had a chance to talk to her and ask questions. I introduced her to Bella and Nolan, and she grabbed my hand and said, "but its OK mom. They are perfect!" She said when her son was diagnosed her husbands response was, "that just means we get to hold him longer". I got a lot of information and I will be scheduling Nolan and Bella with an endocrinologist as soon as possible. There is power in numbers and it seems that everyone in attendance was passionate enough to accomplish anything concerning our children.

2007-09-28T07:55:00.000-07:00

TGIF!!!! We are going to our first meeting for Special needs families tonight. I am really exited about meeting and sharing with other families that are going through similar problems. Yesterday was amazing, my new medication for anxiety is working great and I feel like myself again. I took the kids to the Homecoming Parade...Go Greyhounds! It was a great experience for me and the kids and made me feel at home. Anthony was scared of the fire truck and cried to go back to mama's car. We made signs for each of the kids schools and the firefighters in an attempt to get more beads and candy. It worked because we got more beads (were in Cajun Country) and candy then we could carry. Everyone behaved; after Ava had a melt down, and screamed at Anthony. It was a great day!

Justice is breaking down them walls...He is still trying to hold onto the past but is fighting to move forward in an attempt to allow himself to bond with Tony. God is healing his wounds and helping him to move forward, Shout out to God for that one!

The Dentist

2007-09-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

I found a Dentist that was willing to see all 8 kids in one appointment. Wow! that was by the grace of God. Usually Doctor's want let me bring but 1 kid to the appointment, much less 8. All went well, it was clean and the staff was very friendly they had pleanty for the kids to do while we waited. Anthony had a break down while we waited, I felt like everyone was probably starrring and wondering what was going on. Oh well, somtimes you just have to let them stare. He started to spit and that led to taking his shoes off, and trying to throw things at us. I tried and then Tony tried, but after about 15 minutes Tony took him out to the car to wait. Needless to say he missed his appointment and we will have to try again. There is never a dull moment or.... crisis in 8 Kids Inc.

The dreaded weigh in............

2007-09-24T11:18:00.000-07:00

I went to the Dr. today. I'd been taking Zoloft for anxiety, but it seemed to not be working. So at 6 am the alarm went off, I had Justice(6) on the bus by 6:20 and Ava and Jewels up getting ready. Thank you Jesus, because Anthony(4) and Julius(2) did not wake up at their normal 6:30 am. I had time to drink a cup of coffee and fix the girls hair without having to stop every 5 seconds to get JuJu out of the fridge or Anthony out of the pantry. At 7:00 the boys were up and hungry as always, I had forgot for a minute about Nolan's new hair cut, and I laughed when he crawled out of bed head shinning and happy that he had made it through the night DRY!
Taylor was home today she hurt her shoulder Saturday when me and Tony braved the park with 8 kids in tow. So I took her with me to the Dr. to make sure it was not broken. I am glad that I did because she was a big help with Bella and JuJu. She pushed one and I pushed one our first stop was in a tiny room that looked more like a closet. First the dreaded way in! Yikes, how does that happen... to say the least it was more than id ever seen and was very depressing. Then I thought the blood pressure machine was going make my arm explode into tiny pieces. If that wasn't bad enough they re-took it manually and it was very high. OK I'm at the Dr. for anxiety and now I feel like I'm going to die because the look on the young girls face was enough to send me into a panic. After an EKG the Dr. drew blood and I'll have to repeat the whole thing again in thirty days, only next time there will also be the dreaded pap only to increase my blood pressure I'm sure. She gave me a different med for my anxiety and I am hoping it will help without the side effect that Zoloft had. I am going to try to loose some weight before the next appointment in 30 days nothing drastic, but I'm going to try to make some changes. Pray for me!

2007-09-23T18:05:00.000-07:00

Last night Nolan 4 yrs old cut his hair. He had 3 bald spots, and Tony had no choice other then to shave it. Now he looks like a convict the poor child. He cried when Tony showed him in the mirror. I found Jewels 5 yrs old sitting beside Nolan watching t.v rubbing his prickly head. Taylor said it feels like a tennis ball. The bad thing is people are going to assume that I cut his hair this way on purpose.
Another school project asking for baby pictures. Jewels and Ava 7yrs old are the star students of the week. Jewels had to make a poster with pictures of herself, now and as a baby. Ava had to bring in photographs to be displayed on the class bulletin board, the only problem... we don't have 1 baby picture of her. After we finished Jewels project Ava flopped down on the couch and said she wished she had baby pictures to bring to school. She's never seen baby pictures of herself and I think she didn't want to explain why she didn't have any.

2007-09-23T13:58:00.001-07:00

http://thegirlspeaks.wordpress.com/2007/09/23/why-look-for-the-past/

I came across this story about a previous foster child searching for a long lost friend and former foster brother. Please check it out, maybe you will be the one to help her find him.

Their as crazy as I am.....

2007-09-23T12:45:00.000-07:00

I recently found other adoptive families even larger than our family of 10. I started searching for other women who were as crazy as I am because sometimes, I do feel crazy and I know they are probably the only ones who can really understand what I go through. I found the blog written by Cindy Bodie http://thebodiebunch.blogspot.com/ and I found it to be amazingly comforting. Looking at the pictures of adopted children on other bloggers sites, I noticed that there was life behind the eyes of their children. I was filled to see the hope in the eyes of these children that found their a forever family, and hope in the eyes of the mother who was so willing to share her childen for the world to see that these kids are worth saving!

1st of many blogs