Thanks to all who have replied! I appreciate the kind words of support.
The update is this: there was a hearing on the 21st. My dh was there. He got to meet Dad and some family members. He said they were really nice people. In fact, grandma and auntie cried for us, because they cannot imagine how we must feel. The wanted to hear all about Screech. They thanked us for all we have done with Screech. They took a family vote, and deemed us acceptable.
Dad explained his story, why he did not come forward earlier. I believe him, and while *I* would not have made the same choices or handled my affairs the same way, I do NOT judge him in how he handled things. I can see why he thought what he thought and did (or didn't do) what he did.
At the hearing they "returned the case to dispo." I guess to be investigated. Another hearing has been set for 3 wks from now. Dad was awarded visits twice weekly, and to include overnights. Those visits haven't started yet, I think this is because the case was yet again transferred to someone else, and then the holiday came. I *hope* we can get all the visits set up on the calendar next week. I can't imagine how the family must be feeling right now!
Our ASW finally admitted we are now longer part of the plan. We knew that, but to hear her finally say it, was a mix of sadness and relief. So its not a matter of IF Screech is going to Dad, but WHEN. We are told it will either be immediately after the hearing in 3 wks, or Dad could be ordered services and then it would be months.
We told the kids last weekend. So far, they took it well. We were honest, but kept it kid-friendly. I know that when the actual day comes, it will be more real for them, and we'll deal with it. The 8yr old I am so worried about? Well, just the other day, out of the blue, he asks "can we do this again?" I am like, do what again? "This, like can we be called again, like this year?" While we were waiting to be certified, he'd come home from school and ask if we'd gotten "called" about a match. We talked about it, and I was SHOCKED at him! Just shocked!
We told him we have to wait for things to be resolved with Screech and then we can talk to our SW.
So, while we are are sad, this is a really good ending, to a crappy situation for Screech. Our hope is that he'll be returned at the hearing. From what little we're told, the family is stable and clean, and "non-offending". So we don't what to see this drag out.
So that's the update! Thanks again!