[Bcelli]

SC - Fear not. I also am a 'full-figured' gal with 7 (outside) dogs, 6 cats, 30+ yard foul of various species and 1 Siberian hamster (at the time of home study we also had 6 goats), PLUS I'm pretty much a stay at home gal. PLUS PLUS - we adopted a beautiful 5.5 month old boy from Saratov, Russia in 1998 and are hoping to return this year to find his little 'brother.' Your weight being an issue is something that should be determined only by your physician in their letter of suitability to parent. As for pets - as long as your house is clean and the animals are safe - I'm assuming they are - it shouldn't matter. If your social worker has an issue with it personally - and he/she shouldn't allow their personal prejudices to enter into their assessment - talk it over with them. I'm sure you can find some common ground. With respect to references - what about a teacher or classmate? Do you and your husband attend worship? A pastor is always a good choice. How long have you known your physician? What about friends from high school? Some possibilities will know you better than your husband and vice versa. Don't think you both have to know the person for years and years - just do the best you can. Good luck!