On the phone we were asked basic questions and I will try and remember my response because I was so nervous:
Most of the conversation was about family makeup, ages, birthdays, where we were born, if we have pets, etc.
She asked why we want to adopt and my answer went something like this: we both always wanted a big family but while we could probably have had another biological child, something feels right about offering a home, love and a family to a child who needs one. That we both have experiences and strengths that I think make it a good choice for us.
She also asked the BIG questions that are hard to say yes or no to:
Do you have limitations to what race or ethnicity you would accept? No
Are you willing to take a boy or a girl? No, we would like a boy
Are you willing to accept siblings? (this was a hard one) Not likely, but would still like to hear about good matches that are siblings
What age range will you accept? We are thinking age 3-5 (I am already second guessing myself here-what if this is too small a window)
and so on and on the questions went but I know this is only the start.
The other big news of the week is that I am pretty certain that I would like to do something called Hotline Care once we get through MAPP training and are approved and are waiting to be matched.
This is where you are called at a random time and asked if you can house a child for a night. You can be open to have children in your home as often or infrequently as you are willing and able. These would likely be children just taken out of custody or those who judges will make decisions on very soon. Imagine how hard this much be for these poor souls?
So what does this mean: well for starters we will need cribs, beds, basic childcare accessories. I am kicking myself for everything I sold, donated or gave a way from my kiddos. We will also have to think about our age limitations here and what we are willing to take on.
Why would I want to do such a thing?
Number 1: the need is so great. I have heard countless stories of babies sleeping in offices or two year olds with no where to go. Imagine the pain and confusion in the hearts of those kiddos. We have space and love and I feel guilty not helping.
Number 2: it will give us some experience. Are we cut out for the heartache and uncertainty that is sure to come? Can our children cope with the demands of other little people?
Number 3: It will help us know the system better and allow us to really know social workers.
When you are looking to adopt the most important document is the home study. It is basically a gigantic document with every detail about you and your family. When your case worker feels you may be a match for a particular child they will send this document to the child's social worker. The SW may receive 5 or 25 of these documents from waiting families. They choose the family best for the child. And if they might know you personally or have heard of the work you do as a hotline parent, they may just look a little more carefully at your home study.
So these are some of the early choices we have made. Now to wait. wait for application approval. Wait for background checks. Wait for home safety inspection and then PRAY that there is a MAPP training we can make fit into our schedule.
So if you are the praying type, say a few extra for us. And if you are a good vibes type, send a lot of good vibes our way. I feel like we will need them.
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