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This is not exacly on the subject of stealing, but with regard to testing the waters, we've had a lot of experience with our oldest son and lying (he just turned 11). For months, he would lie about the silliest things. His therapist kept telling us that he was testing the water, and that it was likely to get worse before the adoption was finalized. The therapist was right on. It went on for months, and we tried everything from positive rewards to taking away priviledges, to contests to see which child could get the most "good behavior" stars during a month. Nothing really worked. One day we just sat down with him and had a good conversation about why and what he was lying about, and reassurred him that we were not going to change our minds. It seemed to get better. I am happy to report that we are now three weeks away from finalization and he has really made remarkable improvements, although we do have an occasional setback.
On the subject of room decorations, we had his room all done as well, navy blue and burgundy with bunk beds, border, and all the matching stuff. He told us the first time he walked in he thought he was "in heaven" and that it was exactly as he had dreamed. Our daughter on the other hand, takes great delight in making changes to her room with Mom, everything from picking out new bedding, to having Mom paint murals on her wall, or move things around. I really think it is the difference between girls and boys. I'll bet your new daughter will have a great time helping decorate her room.
Good luck! You are where we were only a few short months ago. One day you are dreaming of having a child and the next day you have one or more!!!! Get ready for neverending laundry! (LOL)
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