[toadopt]

Theres this cute little AA 7 yr old girl, That has touch my heart. I was not looking into adoption at all, but now Iam Tossing the idea. I have a 7yr (girl) and 14 yr ( Boy, both Bio). She has been in foster care for 5 yrs and has been ready for adoption for over a year. She lives by my sisters house and plays with my nephew's. She sweet and polite and just wanting a mom. The foster family can not adopt her as they have adopted 4 all ready. I would love to bring her home in our family.
I have talk briefly with my mom who also knows this little girl and supports me. I have not ask DH yet. I want to get all the facts and what is involved before I ask him. I am sure he will agree. My only thoughts are what do I say to my childern! How do you ask them? She is AA were are CC is that a issue? Not with me anyway. I see all the steps it takes, now Iam in a bind here. We are in the middle on remodeling, house is half done, addition is 80 percent done. My house is a mess. Does this matter? I have pets 3 dogs. I am self employed and work around the kids. My hubby works full time. Please help?

[leenab]

I'd talk to your husband first and see how he feels about adopting this little girl. He may or may not be on the same page as you. Then if he agrees you'll both need to take PATH training classes through DYFS or another approved PATH offerer.

You'll most likely need to have your remolding done before your homestudy and placement of this girl. You'll also have to be approved as an adoptive family be her caseworker and supervisor.

Racially the state doesn't care if she's AA and you're CC. Our family is very mixed: I'm CC, DH is Indian (from India) and both Om and Raj are AA.

As far as your dogs you just have to give the state a copy of their vacinations. Dogs are not a problem.

Asking your children what they think is a good idea. I wouldn't mention this specific child, but just bring up the idea of adoption in general until you know that this little girl will be joining your family.

I'd also talk to your daughter about sharing. My sons are VERY close in age and it has it's good and bad points. They play very well together, but when they get into a fight look out. They're also very competitive with one another so I'm constantly pointing out each one's strengths and praising those instead of comparing. It can be difficult, but it's great when they get along so well which is 97% of the time. So I can deal with the 3% fights and arguements.

Hope this helps,
LeenaB