[DrGrabow]

About an hour ago, we completed the trip back to Texas. My normal 11 hour trip took nearly 13 hours. That's not so bad when you consider that her tiny bladder had me stopping about every hour or so. There were some rough moments. At one point, she said, "I miss my mama and daddy." She was very tired, and shortly after she feel asleep. She said is in a matter-of-fact sort of way, but it still broke my heart.

Once we arrived at my house, the fun started again. After the long drive, she was very happy to play with reckless abandon. She and my five year old had a ball. He was busy showing off for her, treating her very tenderly, and trying on the role of big brother.

Our near future has more uncertainty that certainty, but for right now, things are good. We are thanking God for the opportunity to be a part of this girls life. I have also found some new empathy for my cousin. I know that this was a hard decision for he and his wife to make, but I think it's the right one.

[hkolln]

Originally Posted by DrGrabow

There were some rough moments. At one point, she said, "I miss my mama and daddy." She was very tired, and shortly after she feel asleep. She said is in a matter-of-fact sort of way, but it still broke my heart.

When she says this let her know it's ok to miss them and you are sure they miss her too. Let her know her parents made some wrong choices and are unable to take care of her and keep her safe and now that is your job. And let her grieve for them...I know it's hard watching them hurt however down the road you will look at her and see how far she has come. I can't believe our daughter was the same child 2 yrs ago. She has grown up so much and come so far!

Is she going to get counseling? I know that has helped us alot!

[abensonslaton]

You guys will be in my thoughts the next couple of months. Good luck with everything. Sounds like everything is off to a good start.

[feelingreyt]

Glad you made it home.
I'll be keeping your family in my prayers.
Please keep us updated on how she is adjusting.

[naca]

Congrats on getting home again! Having just made the trip from Indiana to Texas and back to Indiana with 5 kiddos (13mo-13yrs) I can understand the small bladder issues Please keep us updated on how things go for you! Best of luck!

[LoViN_LiFe]

Congrats on picking her up! I too live in Texas. We were able to find an incredible attorney that is letting us pay him out! I dont know how we would have ever afforded it any other way. Love that little girl with everything you have. Kids are WAY to smart and she KNOWS whats going on, to an extent! Be prepaired for alot of questions! I hope that yall have a great trip back...we drive to Illinois every year...its a long one!