Holy Cow, We Didn't See That One Coming!

So, yet another twisty in our ever-changing case. Silence was broken yesterday as I received a call from one of our workers. Turns out, Mom does not have the things in place she claimed to (tried to pull a con, really) and the kiddos will not be returning to her anytime soon. She is keeping her nose above water level and doing the very minimum they are asking. Her rights will not be terminated so now other avenues are being visited for placement.

Turns out, Plan B is to have them return to another family member's home. One we had totally not expected. After the shock wore off we contemplated the positives. Although not the most stellar household, it is still way more stable and safe than had they returned to Mom. We know they are very much loved by these people and that is a source of comfort.

We had a falling out with said family members several months back. It caused a ruckus (to say the least) but I think they would be willing to mend fences for the sake of the children. More so than Mom would, anyhow. We will ask to do respite (county term for babysit) for them a weekend a month.. we'll see...

I have been asked to attend a meeting discussing this placement. They want our input and suggestions. Our bond with them is great and our opinions actually hold water. They want to hear about the changes that have taken place with each child since they arrived in January and also what our concerns are in regards to the new home. I consider it a privilege to be invited and find comfort in knowing what I will say will be on record. Nothing I say will prevent them from leaving but perhaps suggestions made will aide in some factors of their safety and well being.

I will be preparing all weekend for the meeting. It's probably one of the most important speeches I will ever give and I want to knock it out of the park.

So, the long and short of it is this transition will happen in the next two weeks. Although nothing is set in stone just yet, we are at peace with the decisions being made. I joked with the worker that I've chewed and mulled the case over and this scenario was not what I had ever imagined. Her, either. Prayers do get answered in ways we never see coming.

The one true constant in foster care.. expect the unexpected.