[gram23]

We are just getting into foster care we are both retired and have already raised 4 of our own. They are all grown with children of there own.We love babies and young children so will try to get into a long term or foster to adopt. How are you doing with your foster child. we need all the pointers good and bad so please post and let us know how you are doing and what to exspect. Thank you Gram

[V8 Momma]

Hi Gram,
My husband and I don't have grandkids yet, but our daughter is grown and married, so I guess we're in the "elder" group of foster parents.
One thing I've found is the little ones, toddler age, really wear me out quicker than I remember when our daughter was small. I guess that's why God has our child bearing years when we're younger )

We don't let that stop us tho. We have had an infant for 14 months- he went home in September (at age 18 months) and then we had a 1 year old for a couple months. Also we have had 2 teen girls (not at the same time) and currently we only have the 17 y/o girl.

Even tho we strickly foster (not adopt), if our first little guy that we had for so long was available, we'd adopt him. Funny how love can change your plans for life. At this point, we find that it's wonderful to be able to put into these kids lives without the 18+ year commitment. That can sound harsh to alot of foster parents, I guess, but after you've raised one child to adulthood, you understand what that commitment really entails. Sometimes I think I'm too past that part of my life. I'm looking forward to my own daughter having kids someday and being grandma to them.

Have you had any placements yet? One thing i've found is that since you have raised kids past the teen-age part, the agency or county may call on you to take teens. They did this with us twice when they knew that we only wanted kids under 6 y/o. Of course, it's our decision, but after you hear their story the compassion makes you do things you hadn't planned on. So, if you only want a certain age, don't let them "tell you the story" of any kids not in that age. Again, it sounds harsh, but better in the long run.

Good luck to you and God Bless!''
V8Momma