Next steps

And Fostering Begins... We went through all of our classes, did our CPR and First Aide class as well. And then we got our foster home license in 2022.  Then the waiting began.  And finally in August of 2022 we were lucky enough to have FP join us in our home as our very first Foster Daughter.  It was rough at first, won't lie.  The training that you go through is informative; but never really say how it will be in real life.  But again, I wouldn't change a thing.  She is an amazing young lady and is so strong and determined.  We were lucky enough to have her with us for over a year.  It was tough watching her go; but we do this for the reunification with their families.  Sadly in her case things did not go as planned and she was not able to stay with them.  But I have faith that she will get through everything and be even stronger.  All of the kids that come through my house leave with my phone number.  I want them to know that I will always be here if they need anything.  And to remind them that once they are in my house they are family and we will just be a phone call away.  We did hear from FP a few times after she left; which really made my heart feel good.  And it showed that she was paying attention and learned and grew while she was with us.  She loved doing my hair I have so many pictures of the many hair styles by FP.  So many memories that will be with me forever.  Our first year we had a total of 2 girls with us and they both gave us a run for our money; but they each had their own struggles that they had to learn to deal with and fight through.  Our second young lady was a teenager; wasn't sure how that was going to go; but EG was a tough young lady.  As most of them; she came in feeling she was fine on her own and needed no one.  She I will say was my toughest girl to this point.  She was a runner, did not like rules at all.  But have heard that she is doing great now and I could not be prouder of her!!  I can only hope that during their time with us they were able to see that they are important and worth loving.  I will be here for both of these girls if they ever need anything!!  Since we started in 2022 we have had a total of 12 girls with us and 1 boy.   Not only do I hope that they learned something during their time with us; but I know that each one taught us so many things.  And reminded me each day why we decided to do this; because these kids need to know that someone is willing to fight for them.  And they need to see that they are not bad kids that they are worth being loved!!  Currently we have become Legal guardian of SS and her brother is living with us as well; and we will be getting legal guardianship of him as well.  Will talk about the experiences with them as we go along.