[SunCat]

Hey Everyone

I have several questions rolling around in my head after reading some old threads. Most of them concern homestudies.

I have seen the subject of weight come up several times. (Begin self-incrimination now)... Okay, I admit it. I am packing around some extra of my adorable self. According to the ridiculous height weight charts, there is more of me to love than is currently acceptable. HOWEVER, I have ZERO health issues and my heart rate, blood pressure, and cholesterol are all lower than that of my very tall, thin hubby. People are always suprised to find out that I weigh what I do because I have a big frame (and tall ) and carry it very well. So my question is - who determines whether my weight is an issue or not???

Next question is about animals in the home. Does anyone here have a lot of animals and/or experience regarding case worker prejudice regarding pets? I have 4 dogs and a bunch of cats. However, we live on acreage and the animals have outdoor facilities to play in, including a large outdoor screened porch for the kitties...

Last question is in regard to references: I don't have any except family. I have moved around to more places than years I have been alive! It's not been very conducive to building long term friendships, not to mention, I had loads of brothers, sisters, cousings, grandparents, etc to play with.... I just moved to my new residence 4 months ago so no time to establish anything here yet either... I tried to discuss this subject with an agency worker today and her brilliant reply was that I needed to get out more, it would be good for me!!?!?!?!?! I have a spouse, a mother in my home, several animals, and am a full time student- when does she propose I should become a social gadfly? .... Anyway, any help on the subject of references is GREATLYYYYYYYYY appreciated because this subject is massively stressing me out.

Sorry for being longwinded, but all replies are really appreciated!

Regards all!

SC

[Bcelli]

SC - Fear not. I also am a 'full-figured' gal with 7 (outside) dogs, 6 cats, 30+ yard foul of various species and 1 Siberian hamster (at the time of home study we also had 6 goats), PLUS I'm pretty much a stay at home gal. PLUS PLUS - we adopted a beautiful 5.5 month old boy from Saratov, Russia in 1998 and are hoping to return this year to find his little 'brother.' Your weight being an issue is something that should be determined only by your physician in their letter of suitability to parent. As for pets - as long as your house is clean and the animals are safe - I'm assuming they are - it shouldn't matter. If your social worker has an issue with it personally - and he/she shouldn't allow their personal prejudices to enter into their assessment - talk it over with them. I'm sure you can find some common ground. With respect to references - what about a teacher or classmate? Do you and your husband attend worship? A pastor is always a good choice. How long have you known your physician? What about friends from high school? Some possibilities will know you better than your husband and vice versa. Don't think you both have to know the person for years and years - just do the best you can. Good luck!