[L-A-J-C-R-C]

Hi Jessica,

First off I want to commend you on the compassion you are showing her mom! It sounds to me like you are a great foster parent and love this little girl.

Have you discussed the semi-open adoption with her mom? If not I would seriously think about doing the letters and pictures (and even phones calls but just to you) for at least a while. This little girl's world has been turned upside down AGAIN. She was with you then you prepared her to go home, now she's told she's not going home. Poor baby!!! It's no wonder she's having such a hard time.

Our kid's mom is thrilled that I have offered the semi-open adoption. Of course she would love to see them but that's not part of our agreement, at least until they are a little older, but she told me it makes her feel so much better to just hear about them and know they're okay and being loved rather than not know anything at all. My kids were 13 months and 4 weeks old when they were placed with us so they don't remember their mom at all. It must be a lot more difficult on your little one.

If her mom is crying so bad at saying goodbye maybe you could gently suggest she steps back for a little while but be sure to reassure her that, when she's ready she is free to contact you again.

Sorry I have no better advice for you. Best of luck to all of you. I hope her mom is able to find peace in her heart to heal.

Michelle