Watching Television During Dinner.

We usually have the tv on during dinner.  I've never been quite sure how I feel about that, but I know that Brian and I both like the background noise.  Of course, this usually means that one of the kids has to be told, at some point, to stop watching tv and eat dinner.   … Continue reading Watching Television During Dinner.

My son doesn’t like change.

"I'm scared to turn 9."  It was the last thing that we expected to hear.  After days of random and inexplicable behaviors, William finally said those words to Brian.And, suddenly it made sense.  We understood why just a few days before his birthday, William was refusing to do his work, drawing on his pants, and, … Continue reading My son doesn’t like change.

What Will My Children Remember?

I often think about the memories that my kids will have of me.  I have really great memories of my childhood and I want them to, as well.  There was a lot of singing and dancing in my house when I was growing up.  My parents (especially my mom) were silly.  My mom once asked me … Continue reading What Will My Children Remember?

I am the mom of my children.

The other day, a well-meaning, curious person asked me if Lizzie's mom is in the picture at all.  And, I felt like she had slapped me in the face.  I explained that all parental rights had been terminated, so no.  She was relieved to hear it.  She walked away and I sat with unpleasant memories … Continue reading I am the mom of my children.

From non-relative placement to forever mom, looking back to 2 years ago (September 29, 2009)

On September 11, 2008, a  case worker brought Lizzie to us and we fell in love.  We were contacted because we had already adopted the boys.  In the first conversation, we were asked if we would like to adopt her and advised that it would be an expedited process.  We said yes, but then things … Continue reading From non-relative placement to forever mom, looking back to 2 years ago (September 29, 2009)

Raising My Self-Confident Child.

My Antwan.  He's smart, compassionate, and a fast runner.  Most things come easy to him.  He's absolutely beautifiul.  And, in many ways, he's become my biggest challenge.  William is eager to please and is insecure.  Therefore, he really tries to do what I ask of him.  Antwan is eager to please, but not the tiniest bit insecure.  … Continue reading Raising My Self-Confident Child.

Adoption Placement Memories (3 years ago, I met my daughter.)

September 11 is a date that will be remembered by Americans everywhere, always.  It was a terrible day that shouldn't have happened.  But, for us, September 11th (2008) also represents a new beginning because it was the day that we met Lizzie.  I'm aware of the irony.  On the date when so many lost so much, we gained … Continue reading Adoption Placement Memories (3 years ago, I met my daughter.)

Adopted children and their need to be accepted.

Driving home from the store, (It seems like we are always driving home from the store), William referenced the eternal "Can I ______, I'll be your best friend!"  (When someone wants what you have or wants you to do something and offers to be your best friend...)  Then he said, "But, they never keep their … Continue reading Adopted children and their need to be accepted.