[minibus]

Hello,

I am new to this group. We just adopted a sibling pair - a 20 month old girl and a 3 month old boy via domestic agency adoption (not foster adopt). It's been ... interesting so far for us and quite tiring, but we're hoping that being back home after ICPC and getting into a routine, things will smooth out soon. I'd appreciate any encouragement / words of wisdom that would help us through this transition.

Michelle

[2Newmom]

Hello Minibus!

My DH and I just adopted siblings ages 8.5 and 4 years old, nine weeks ago from foster care. While I thought I had prepared for the transition, I learned quickly to prioritize what household chores needed to be done and remember that the most important thing at this time is to bond and enjoy your children. While at times I felt like I needed help we were careful not to have lots of visitors as it overwhelmed the children. It is also important for the children to bond with you. It is exhausting but a routine will be established.

Take care,
2Newmom

[rad_momof5]

My husband and I adopted a sibling group of 5 from foster care (ages 3 1/2-81/2) and it was just as you said, "instant family, just add water!" It takes time to figure out details, scheduling, shopping, Everything, really! but make sure that you schedule into your life time for you to get a break and a weekly date with your significant other. It's hard to start that kind of thing later, and trust me, You'll need it!!

[joskids]

MINIBUS - Congratulations on two little ones joining your family. My first thought was to tell you to give yourself time to get it together. I agree that bonding with your children, spending time playing ring-around-the rosie, is SO MUCH more important than the house being perfect. Hold them, watch Barney with them, go for walks together and let family and friends know that you need time together. It takes about 6 mos. to really start feeling back to normal after adding any child to your home. Two little ones is a big jump but a year from now you will look back and amaze yourself with how far you and the children have come to be the family you had hoped for. We have adopted 4 times and done a few years of foster care. I've learned to just "take a chill pill" some days and to lean on other adoptive parents when you really need to talk openly about your concerns. Again, congratulations on being new parents!!!!

[HappyHopefulMommy]

HI Minibus -

Mine are a little older, but a week ago we were placed with 3 kids from fost/adopt; ages 3, 5 and 6. I totally agree with PP's, spending time with the kids is the most important thing. I am such an organized, clean person and it has been so hard to let things go. But I have wanted a big family for so long and I am totally enjoying every minute of playing with them. But don't forget to take time for yourself too. (I usually end of staying up too late to get that time) Good luck and Congratulations.