[DrGrabow]

Ok, so my first cousin called me at work yesterday, and we had a very strange conversation. He told me that his wife and he had decided that one of thier two daughters that they adopted three years ago was not working out. He asked me if my wife and I would consider adopting her. She is three years old.

In a way, this was an answered prayer, because I have been worried about both of his kids. They are very strict with them (not to the point of any abuse that I have witnessed, but I do have my suspisions and fears) He told me that her inability to meet thier (crazy and age in-appropriate) expectations was driving him to the point where he feared he would "lose it" with her.

My wife and I have discussed this and I have prayed about it and feel that this is something we want to do. I also feel that time is of the essence, as I would really like her out of thier house ASAP.

We have made an appointment with a lawyer, but we are very worried about how much this will cost. This is a VERY un-planned-for expense, and it is honestly money that we just don't have.

Does anyone have any advice for me? I live in Texas and the baby is in Illinois. I'd like to know the fastest way to at least get temporary custody of her and then work out the details.

Signed,

Overwhelmed, but grateful