So, yeah, we are back in the adoption world. We got our new Adoption Toolkit in the mail.
Oh, the paperwork.
Paperwork, paperwork, paperwork.
Didn't we just do this? It sure feels like it. And we're not just ordering documents, although there is plenty of that, but now we are answering questions like, "What tools will you need to assist a child in reunifying with a birth family, even if you disagree with the decision?". Ummm, well, we won't be reunifying, right? Isn't that the whole "adopt" in "foster-adopt"? I know there's a risk, and a huge one in this particular process. It's just difficult to see that end of things at this stage of the game. I think I felt this way the first time--we are busy trying to get medical appointments, take 30 hours of training through the state (anyone want to babysit?), write detailed autobiographies, and on and on and on. We need to think clearly about what we want and can handle. And that's difficult while slogging through all of this paperwork.
Those questions, however, prompted me to dust off the old adoption books and print off some new articles on grief and loss. We do need to have our wits about us and make concrete decisions about the type of child that would best fit our family. This is such a totally different process than last time, so I don't really know the answer to that yet.
This Friday we attend a training at our agency (WA.CAP) and next month we begin PRIDE training, which is for foster parents (we must have a foster parent license to join the program). I think the PRIDE training will give us far more insight into the program and we will be able to gain some footing into how to expand our family in the best way possible for everyone. At least, I sure hope so--it's a lengthy and involved training, for sure.
So, for now, trainings, trainings, and more trainings. Lots of paperwork. Prepping for two more home visits. The list is huge, but we've done it before.
Welcome 2014! I couldn't predict the outcome of this year if I tried.
Maybe some day we will go through the foster-to-adopt process (don't tell my husband I said that). I'm looking forward to following your journey.
ReplyDeleteCONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!! Yay, I can't wait to follow along!
ReplyDeleteAh, paperwork! Your old friend. :) And yes, it does just seem like yesterday I was doing paperwork. Perhaps that's because our readoption was just finalized three weeks ago. Good luck as you embark on this process - I'll be eagerly following along.
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