Day 9: Visits: I hope you've never been, I hope you will never have to go. I hope your children will never have to be in a room where people with a badge peer in from the other side of mirrored glass and watch over you parenting your children. Strangers who watch and make assumptions in order to fill in the “notes” section of their report about supervised visits with your children. People who could of woke up on the wrong side of the bed, dealing with personal issues and stress of their own, anything to make their perception a little more jaded and judgemental. Yet, their reports about our visits hold so much weight. For me personally, Visits were both the best day and the hardest day of the week. No matter how much I prepared, I left every visit with my spirit crushed. Every time I had to leave my baby again Made me hate myself, the system, and her foster parents a little more. After visits is when I would most often get high in order to numb the shame and guilt I felt for being a horrible mother. It was a vicious cycle I got lost in. The pain won. I stayed numb. The visits ended. She paid the price of my decisions. *It's written in my case report that I often took pictures during my visits. Regardless of where we were, I'll never regret having these one on one memories with her captured in photos. To this day, she knows I come snapping "too" many pictures every chance I get to see her. ❤️📷 #FCAM #birthmom #fostercareadoption #openadoption #childwelfare
Somehow destiny comes into play. These children end up with you and you end up with them. It’s something quite magical. – Nicole Kidman 🌐 YatesLegalGroup.com . . . . . . . . #adoptionsaveslives #adoptionadvocate #adoptionagency #lawfirms #childcarecenter #adoptionday #adoptions #familylawyers #familylawyer #adoptionawareness #adoptionlove #adoptionisbeautiful #openadoption #attorneyatlaw #fostercareadoption #familyattorney #childcarelife #domesticadoption #adoptionstory #legaladvice #savethechildren #adoptionplan #adoptionjourney #lawfirmlife #fosterchildren #adoptionrocks #adoptionstories #adoptionprofile #adoptionprocess #adoption
😎 Are you looking for a way to help support a child in foster care? Sponsor a week of summer camp. 😎 🏀Obviously each state and each county are different but often times there is very little funding available for summer camps. Especially a specialty camp. You could provide a week of summer camp to a child who may not have that opportunity if it weren’t for you.🏀 Children with trauma thrive when they are kept busy with activities that intrigue them and allow them to put their troubles aside for a while and just be a child. When there is too much down time and not a lot of structure, it allows their minds to run wild, often times creating anxiety and depression. 🚨If you are a foster parent in Iredell County or surrounding counties, we have a few scholarships available for summer camps. Please reach out for additional information.🚨 . . . . . #summer #summercamp #fostercare #fosterparent #fostercareawarenessmonth #fostercareadoption #fostercareawareness #FosterCareMonth #fostercarejourney #fostercaresystem #fostercaresupport
During National Foster Care Month, we want to remind you of our commitment to preparing parents well to adopt from the foster care system. Here's a review of one of our online parenting courses. Take the course by tapping the link in our bio and choosing CreatingaFamilyEd.org Online Parent Training from our linktree. The courses are listed alphabetically when you tap Search All Courses. #fostercare #fosterparents #fostering #fostercareadoption #NationalFosterCareMonth
#FosterCareAwarenessMonth Day 8: Redemption “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.”” Romans 8:15 Bringing someone into your family who wasn't born into it is a beautiful picture of what God does for us when we accept His gift of salvation. 🤍✝️ #fosterthefamily #fostercareadoption #fostercareawareness
Seeing her do what she couldn’t do for me - it feels like redemption and YET I hold such clear strong boundaries in this relationship. Prompt: @fosterthefamilyblog #adoptionstory #adoption #adopteevoices #fostercare #fostercareadoption
🙏 Join us in helping our Deacons’ Pantry for May— @Foster Care Coalition. They are in need of feminine and 🪥 daily hygiene products, 🤧 facial tissue, 👕 new children’s clothing, 🧳 luggage, duffels & 🎒backpacks. All 💵 donations are greatly appreciated! #fostercareadoption #fostercareawareness #fostercareawarenessmonth #fostercarejourney
YOU are the reason why WE can ❤️ ✨Your help is the reason why we’ve donated over 200 bags to : ♥️Thompson Teen Center ♥️Joshua House ♥️Family Support Services ♥️Carlton Manor ♥️Devereux Behavioral Health WE can keep make a change when we keep working together! ✨Discover how $3 can leave a bigger impact than you might think! Link in bio ❤️ - #fostercareawarenessmonth #fostercareadoption #community #support #fostercaresystem #fosterlove
Aimee (14) is a country girl with a big dream: to become a rodeo star in Texas! 🤠🌟 Stomping boots, kicking up dust, and listening to Dolly Parton are just the beginning! Aimee is wishing for an adoptive family - she doesn’t care what you do as long as you love her. Comment "Aimee" to learn more Families outside of Indiana may inquire Aimee has a special preference for families with horses and farms #adoption #fostercare #adoptteens #fostercareadoption
A reshare: December brought joy. January brought worry. February brought me to my knees. March brought hope. And April, April brought redemption. ❤️. Today Arlo got to meet his new sister, Sadie. We love her, and her mama, so much. ❤️ #adoptivemom #biologicalsibling #biologicalsiblings❤️❤️ #fostercareadoption #fostercare #privateadoption #biofamily #adoptivefamily #fyp #siblingsmatter
We recently asked Paula, our intake coordinator, to share one area where she would like to see improvement in her area of work. Her answer so exemplified our own mission, we wanted to quote her here: "I firmly believe in the “Three R’s of Foster Parenting,” taught to me by my mentor – – Respect, Response, and Recognition. Foster parents deserve the respect of child welfare professionals; they deserve to be involved in decision-making and to be kept informed. Foster parents deserve response from child welfare professionals; their calls and emails should not be ignored – – their voices should be heard and they should receive factual, timely information. Foster parents should be recognized and supported by child welfare professionals; they open their hearts and homes to abused and neglected and take on work that even child welfare professionals cannot. It is my desire to improve the child welfare arena in South Carolina and to make sure that foster and adoptive parents are linked with supports that will enable them to provide safe, stable, permanent families for vulnerable children. Children should not be “stuck” in South Carolina’s foster care system because of systemic barriers in the child welfare agency and the courts." #fosterparents #fostercareadoption #reunification #parenthood #fostercare #fostercareawareness #fostercarejourney #fostercareeducation #fostercareishard #fostercaresupport #fostercareattorney #adoptionattorney #fosterlove #adoptthelove #privateadoption #dssadoption #fostermom #fosterdad #fosterfamily
Our precious boy, Jennings, auditioned for his school talent show and received a spot to perform at the end of the year! We are so super duper proud of him! #talentshow #talented #adoption #fostercareadoption #adoptionstory #adoptionjourney #fostercare
Bingo, the lovable 5-month-old puppy, is still in search of his forever home. Currently being fostered in West Hurley, NY, this sweet pup is eagerly awaiting a family to call his own. Known for his friendly nature, Bingo gets along well with kids and dogs, and he even seems to be comfortable around the resident cat. With his playful demeanor and affectionate personality, Bingo is sure to bring joy and companionship to his future adoptive family. If you're looking to add a delightful furry friend to your household, consider giving Bingo the loving home he deserves. For an application please fill below ⬇️ https://www.trinafriendsk9rescue.org/new-page #fostercareadoption #dogsofinstagram #rescueshepherd #rescuedismyfavoritebreed #germanshepherdsofinstagram #germanshepherdsofinstagram #dogrescue #adoptdontshop
We've broken 1 lb... even Mouse is getting close! 😁 Not sure it was Fluff B. Pomme or who smushed the box but all are now able to climb up, growing and learning at their own pace. Hela's back legs are strengthening nicely and she's able to climb up after a try or two but she's more often in it. 🤍🥰 . . #austinanimalcenter #fostercare #fosterkittens #fostercareadoption #adoptme #adopt #atxfosterkittens #atxfosters #adoptdontshop #adoptdontshop🐾 #adoptdontshop🐾❤️ #fosterlife🐾
Top New Release in Adoption books. 🥰 YOU made that happen, my friends. I have been overwhelmed by support this week. THANK YOU! Let’s spread the word and watch adoption change the world! 💛🪷 #adoption #internationaladoption #domesticadoption #specialneedsadoption #specialneeds #fostercare #fostercareadoption #chinaadoption #bulgariaadoption #ethiopiaadoption #ghanaadoption #koreaadoption #southkoreaadoption #thailandadoption #philippinesadoption #usadoption #infantadoption #olderadoption #siblingadoption
At Yates Legal Group, we understand that family comes first and we're here to help make the intricacies of the court system more navigable. We provide professional service that allows our clients to become involved in their own legal process, encouraging understanding and giving them the power to protect themselves against any future issues. Schedule a consultation today to see how we can best help your family ! 📞 305-308-2977 📧 [email protected] . . . . . . . #blacklawyersmatter #familylawyers #adoptionrocks #adoptionstory #lawyer #familylawyer #openadoption #adoptionjourney #legaladvice #fostercareadoption #adoptionawareness #floridalawfirm #lawfirmlife #adoptionday #fosterchild #blackattorney #adoptionagency #blackattorneys #attorneyatlaw #miamilawyer #domesticadoption #adoptionsaveslives #adoptionlove #adoptionisbeautiful #lawfirms #familyattorney #floridalawyer #lawfirm #adoptions #fosteradoption
Day 7: First Day of Placement: May 4th, 2013 was her first day of placement, And the closest I had ever come to taking my own life. I left the hospital without my last born daughter. Three short days after an emergency C-section and having my tubes tied. After having a meeting with Child Welfare case workers bedside, As I recovered from delivery. After a court hearing held by phone that I still can’t fully recall, After having her removed from my room and placed in the nursery so that I could be supervised with her. Upon arriving at my mother’s home, (where I was lucky to have secured a room for Madalyn and I.) I walked into an empty house. No one to comfort me and ask if I was “ok.” No one to hold me while I sobbed in fear for both of our lives. My baby was with strangers, And I was alone and spiraling quickly. In hindsight, I can recognize that I was delusional to have thought she would be coming home with me at all. I knew the reality of my drug use and knew I didn’t stop “in time.” But I held hope that my short stint of sobriety, a safe place to take her home to, and the willingness to do anything CPS wanted me to do would be enough. Clearly, it wasn't. That was just the beginning of our story. Here we are, nearly 10 years post placement, Thinking about this day in our story still brings me to my knees. I experience both the greatest shame while begging for forgiveness for the trauma she experienced because of my choices. I pray nightly for Forgiveness for the woman I was then, and For the missed chance to be her mother. #fostercareadoption #birthmother #fostercare #openadoption #NFCAM
Sleepyheads. Early this morning Peaches had her breakfast and nobody moved. They're not a fan of sleeping on the nubby mat- used for traction, so everyone started napping in the box. Clementine is always aware, opened her eyes for a sec and gave a tiny peep. 🥰 . . #austinanimalcenter #fostercare #fosterkittens #fostercareadoption #adoptme #adopt #atxfosterkittens #atxfosters #adoptdontshop #adoptdontshop🐾 #adoptdontshop🐾❤️ #fosterlife🐾
Whether your children are yours through biology or adoption, they are yours through love. – Sadia Rebecca Rodriguez 🌐 YatesLegalGroup.com . . . . . . . . . #adoptionsaveslives #adoptionadvocate #adoptionagency #lawfirms #childcarecenter #adoptionday #adoptions #familylawyers #familylawyer #adoptionawareness #adoptionlove #adoptionisbeautiful #openadoption #attorneyatlaw #fostercareadoption #familyattorney #childcarelife #domesticadoption #adoptionstory #legaladvice #savethechildren #adoptionplan #adoptionjourney #lawfirmlife #fosterchildren #adoptionrocks #adoptionstories #adoptionprofile #adoptionprocess #adoption
Congratulations to the “A” family on their foster care adoption. We love that precious sign too!! #betsytannerlaw #adoption #scadoptionattorney #fostercare #fostercareadoption
Sir Chester enjoying Manhattan on his nightly walk 🌟🐶🏙️ #mrkitschscorner #sirchesterthechihuahua #louieslegacy #rescuedogsofinstagram #fostercareadoption #adoptdontshop #petsofinstagram #dog #dogsofinstagram #doglife #dogsofinsta #dogstagram #backinthecity #newyork #newyorkcity #newyorkcityboy #night #nightphotography #nighttimephotography #dogatnight #nightwalk #nightwalkers
Please pray for encouragement for those in the foster care community. #fostercare #fostering #fostercareaz #fosteraz #azhope #hopekidsaz #hope #kids #az #arizona #help #adoption #adoptionjourney #azadopt #adoptaz #fostercareadoption #prayeroftheday #potd #prayer
Day 6: Trauma Although the fractures my children experienced were not physical, that will never negate the brokenness that our family has experienced because of my choices made in addiction and the broken system of Child Welfare. The trauma of separation bleeds onto many people outside of the ones directly affected. It’s not the ripple effect I wanted to create, Nor the tattered legacy I ever wanted to leave. Being a client or child of the system brings its own serving of trauma in ways that are hard to truly explain. Foster Care can only be experienced, not explained. Hence, the phrase most commonly heard on all sides, “ I can’t imagine...” I believe the system means well but is using an outdated playbook with Overworked and tired players. Addicts are often the adult version of the very kids people sign up to “ save.” We all enter the system with hope of a better outcome, However, the definition of “better” is always relative. Every player of Foster Care comes to the table with a different agenda. Most of the time, I would like to believe, for the greater good of the children involved. However, the truth remains: Some hope children end up without their parents and get to stay forever within their new family. Some hope that a miracle will happen, families will be repaired, and reunification will be met. Some hope never to be returned to their parents because anywhere is better than there. Some hope for a future that will never be met, only to later repeat history themselves. All fight, only some win. Trauma can be defined in a multitude of ways, Many different accounts can be held of the same experience. At the end of every day, Foster Care is built on separation and/or loss. Loss is traumatic. Period. #NFCM #fostercare #fostercareadoption #addictiontoadvocate #birthmother
Day 5: Biological Family I never knew my biological father nor his family, and I have yet to meet my two sisters on that side. A generation later, I repeated many cycles. I too have a daughter who has never met her biological father nor family. She has yet to meet her two sisters on that side. I often wonder if her sisters think of her as another one of their fathers many mistakes, Or if they think of her at all. I wonder if they hate me for not doing right, even though they don’t know me either. I wonder if my daughter will be angry or bitter that they have always lived in the same small town as one another. The same small town we all lived in at one time, at the same time. Through biology, She has 4 sisters. Through adoption, She has 6 sisters and 1 brother. Because of foster care, She has experienced many sibling relationships that have come and gone through her home. She has hazel eyes that come from my grandma or her father. She has stick straight hair that comes from her sister on her dad’s side. She has an attitude like her middle sister on my side, She is tall and slender and resembles both her eldest sisters the most, In most ways. Overall, she is a beautiful, complex mix of many people see knows, and will never know. #biologyiscomplicated #Birthmother #fostercareadoption #NFCA #fostercareawareness #toknowheristoloveher
#FosterCareAwarenessMonth Day 6 - Trauma, and Day 7 - First Day of Placement Trauma I first started learning about the impacts of trauma as a teacher, and I have continued to learn more and more as a foster parent. What I initially found so surprising when I first started learning about it was how it physically alters your brain and can increase your chances of health problems and early death. Even a baby adopted at birth has potentially encountered trauma in utero that will impact his or her development. Because of this, these kids' brains are constantly in survival mode, which affects their behavior. Part of my training is learning TBRI, Trauma Based Relational Intervention, which makes a huge difference in how I see behaviors and how to respond to them. First Day of Placement This picture is actually from the first day I met my little one, which was 3 days before her official placement with me. She was with another single parent foster family for about 10 days before she came to me. The parent cared deeply about her, but had another special needs child in the home, and was not able to handle both. (I get it --I could not handle another with her either! 😆) So I had the rare opportunity to have a visit with her to see if I felt she would be a good fit for my home. I'll admit, I was a little nervous to say yes. She was almost 3 but only could say a handful of sounds like "uh oh" and did not sound easy to handle based on what I heard from her first foster parent. But I'm a special ed teacher and felt like I was equipped to at least attempt to handle her needs. I actually had been interested from the beginning in fostering a child with special needs. And as much of a rollercoaster as my life has been since July 20, 2022, I know without a doubt she was the child I prayed for from the beginning. ❤️ #fostercareadoption #fostercareawareness #fosterthefamily #trauma #tbri
This week's episode of The General Counsel Podcast is now live! Join me for an insightful conversation with Nyla Gaylord on Foster and Adoptive Parenting. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and timharner.com. Nyla Gaylord is a lifelong resident of Orleans County and lives in Clarendon, New York. Since 2014, She is currently Executive Director of the United Way of Orleans County. Prior to working for the United Way, she was Executive Director of the Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern, Inc. With more than 40 years of experience working for various non-profit organizations, Nyla has gained extensive expertise in leadership and management, program development, and insight into the challenges faced by low-income people living in both rural and urban areas. Nyla’s career in human services has been informed by her experiences as a parent of four adopted boys with special needs and as a foster parent to six adolescent boys. As a single parent, she was a foster parent for two adolescent girls. Now that these children are adults, she continues to provide support and advocacy to help them live independently. #newpodcastalert #newpodcastepisode #thegeneralcounselpodcast #podcastinterview #fostercareadoption #fostercareawareness #podcastguest
Faces. Time for a face update after they turned ~4 weeks, plus 2 new names. Mouse fitting in well... gaining some weight. Not sure if his name will stay w/ his spotted nose 😊, we'll see. FBPomme... fluffy as ever. Clementine has become a puff too. Hilla is now Hela and we'll see how that works and my Torti rebel is Opal. Took me forever to get her to look up as she just does her own thing. 😆🥰 . . #austinanimalcenter #fostercare #fosterkittens #fostercareadoption #adoptme #adopt #atxfosterkittens #atxfosters #adoptdontshop #adoptdontshop🐾 #adoptdontshop🐾❤️ #fosterlife🐾
Introducing Francisco “Franky” Calderon 🎉 On Friday May 3rd I officially became a mother of two, finalizing the adoption of my son, Franky. For those that don’t know the story, I’ve loved this little boy since he was 8-months-old. During the 27 months I was his foster mom, a lot happened in our interwoven lives. Foster care life is unstable enough - our journey was laden with additional uncertainties. Less than 3 years on this Earth, and he’s already had to learn that life’s not fair. This week, I am overwhelmed with joy and relief. But adoption is always a part of a story that involves painful loss, so is no celebration of his being separated from his biological family. This is a celebration his leaving the foster care system forever. His case is finally closed. He is my son ❤️ 📷: @whitneycoudrayphotography #mothersday2024 #fostermomlife #fostercareawareness #fostercareadoption
We are pleased to assist an out-of-state family in their efforts to adopt two biological brothers from Florida’s Foster Care System. Because the children were in Foster Care in Florida, Yates Legal Group is able to assist this family, even though they live cross country, in their adoption efforts. If you would like to work with Yates Legal Group to adopt one of Florida’s children, contact Yates Legal Group today for a consultation. 📞305-308-2977 📧[email protected] . . . . . . . #AdoptTogether #ForeverFamily #FosterCareAdoption #FamilyIsForever #AdoptionJourney #SiblingAdoption #AdoptingSiblings #FosterToAdopt #FamilyLove #AdoptionProcess #BuildingFamilies #AdoptionSupport #AdoptionStory #LoveMakesAFamily #AdoptiveParents #AdoptionAdvocate #AdoptionSuccess #AdoptionAwareness #AdoptionIsLove #ForeverHome #ChildrenInNeed #EveryChildDeservesAFamily #NationalAdoptionMonth #AdoptionCommunity #FosterCareAwareness #AdoptionAgency #ShareYourStory #AdoptionSupportGroup #AdoptionMiracle
🎙️ Dive into the heartwarming journey of fostering and adoption with Julia Kramer on this week’s featured my episode of Crushing It with Your Tribe podcast! 💖 Join me as I chat with Julia about her incredible experience as a step-foster-adopt-bio-Mom. From navigating the complexities of fostering to embracing the joy of adoption, Julia's story is one of love, resilience, and family. In April 2021, the Kramers embarked on their fostering journey, leading to the beautiful adoption of their son in November 2021. 🏡 Amidst selling, buying, and moving homes, they opened their hearts to a new addition, proving that love knows no bounds. Whether you're curious about fostering, adoption, or simply want to learn more, Julia welcomes all questions and encourages you to take the first steps towards understanding this beautiful journey. 🌟 Tune in now and be inspired by Julia's story of love, compassion, and building a family in unexpected ways! 🔊 Link in bio —> “Crushing It With Your Tribe! Podcast” #RealEstate #KW #KellerWilliams #KellerWilliamsUrbanDallas #RealEstateAgent #SellingHomes #RobinSellsHomes #RobinMcCoyRealty #Realtor #RelaxIGotThis #CrushingItWithYourTribe #Podcast #Tribe #ABWA #Charisma #Adoption #FosterFamily #Adopt #Stepparent #FosterParent #AdoptedParent #Family #Children #AdoptionStory #Parent #FosterParents #FosterToAdopt #FosterCareAdoption #AdoptionJourney #FosterCareAwareness
BioSocial Cognition is not giving you a rule book of “If this happens…then you do this.” It is providing a formula that you plug variables into for you to make a parenting decision. - Thomas C. Rector, Accrescent Institute #AccrescentInstitute #AccrescentOrg #Accrescent #BioSocialCognition #ThomasCRector #ThomasRector #Parenting #ParentingSupport #FosterParenting #FosterParents #FosterParent #Adoption #AdoptionSupport #KinshipCarers #FosterCare #FosterCareAdoption #FosterCareYouth #ParentingWorkshops #PositiveParenting #ConsciousParenting #MindfulParenting #ParentingIsHard
@filledupcup_ Have you ever considered adoption? @laneigoudin joins me on episode 89 of the Filled Up Cup podcast to discuss his candid memoir: A Family, Maybe Two Dads, Two Babies, and the Court Cases that Brought Us Together. This episode is streaming on all major podcast platforms. ☕️ Filled Up Cup: podcast, blog, and events focused on unconventional self-care practices. ☕️ #lgbtqbooks #memoirs #laneigoudin #fostercareadoption #lgbtadoption #gayrights #nationalbookloversday #bookinstagram #gaydadsofinstagram #fathersanddaughters #loveisloveislove #myadoptionstory #parentingmemoir #fostercareawarenessmonth
National Foster Care Day is a reminder that every child deserves a safe, loving, and stable home. Let's come together to support foster families, advocate for change, and ensure the well-being of every child. #thisisfostercare #fostercare #fosterfamily #fosterlove #fostering #fosterparents #fostercareawareness #fostercareadoption #fosterthoughtfulness #fostercareofinstagram #familylove💞 #familylife❤️
Had a wonderful time at the South Texas Cattle Women’s charity event. They were raising funds for the foster home I grew up at. Truly blessed that I was able to speak and share some insight into what being in foster care was like at Big Springs Ranch for children. #fostercare #fostercareawareness #fostercareadoption #thankful
I almost took the exact same photo last night, because he was once again surrounded by kids coloring with them. Our Miguel has been home for a year, and our lives have gotten so much better because of him. Miguel is gentle, helpful, the type A organizer to my type C lifestyle. He has the best dry humor, the most humble spirit, the greatest determination I’ve ever seen. He remembers the little things about people and is loyal to right ones. Miguel became family at 18 and we needed him just as much as he needed us. Everyone who meets him adores him, and our family feels more like family with him. It’s never too late to say yes to a child, and it may be one the greatest decisions you ever make, just ask Miguel ❤️ #nfcm #nationalfostercareawarenessmonth #fostercare #fostercareadoption #thisisfostercare
Happy Tuesday ! Today is National Foster Care Day / Month 👭👫👬 Show some love and support to the children , families, caregivers and everyone involved in foster care - YOU ARE AMAZING 🫶 - Jess #tuesday #FosterCareAwarenessMonth #fostercare #fostercaresystem #fostercaresupport #fostercarejourney #fostercareadoption #thankyou
🌟 Happy National Foster Care Day! 🌟 Today, we celebrate the incredible foster parents, organizations and volunteers who make a difference in the lives of children in need. It’s a day to honor the compassion and dedication of those who open their hearts and homes to children during times of uncertainty. National Foster Care Day reminds us of the importance of supporting and uplifting these amazing kids. Join us in honoring the heroes of foster care and spreading love to all foster families, both today and throughout the year! 💙
Another great IN PERSON Teen Group coming soon to our Norfolk Office. Specifically designed for teens who have been adopted, fostered or in kinship homes. Call now to register or learn more. 757-466-3336 #foster #fostercareadoption #adoption #adoptionislove #fosterteens
Could you foster a child? Foster with Happy Hearts ♥️ Contact us today for an informal chat 🫶 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #happyhearts #happyheartsfostercare #fostering #fosteringsavinglives #fosteringsaveslives #fostercare #birminghamfostering #fostercareawareness #fostercareadoption #fosterparents #trainingday #socialcare #socialwork #children #childcare #youngpeoplematter #youngpeople #movingon #fostercarer #westmidlands #mondaymotivation #week #alwayshere #support #workfromhome #care #wecare #fosterfamilies #muslimfostercare #fostercareuk
National Foster Care Awareness Month… Did you know there are over 400,000 children in foster care and approximately 117,000 of them are waiting to be adopted. If you have ever considered adopting, there are children who desperately need someone to say “yes” to them. If you have wanted to adopt, but haven’t, what is holding you back? . . . . . #fostercarejourney #FosterCareMonth #foster #fosterparent #adoption #adoptionjourney #fostercaresupport #fostercareawarenessmonth #volunteer #fostercareadoption #fosterparents #fostercare #fostercareawareness
Tomorrow is Nation Foster Care Day, Lets pray for those who are in foster care and for caregivers! How can you make a difference today? Don't wait, Get involved! https://www.hgs-utica.com/preventive-services/ #fostercareawareness #fostercareadoption #fostercareawarenessmonth #fostercare #ltimuny
Booster Snack. Everyone except Peaches did great on their 1st booster at lunch today... she's not a fan of the carrier. But, after a bit she settled back in and loaded them up, including Mouse and his Bitty Buddha Belly. It's be hard to tell who's at the milk bar more, him or H. 🤔😉😆 . . #austinanimalcenter #fostercare #fosterkittens #fostercareadoption #adoptme #adopt #atxfosterkittens #atxfosters #adoptdontshop #adoptdontshop🐾 #adoptdontshop🐾❤️ #fosterlife🐾
Now available on Amazon to purchase! 🧒🏻🐶 I would love if you would share with anyone you think would love a copy! God is good, even in the unimaginable situations. He is our only hope! . Link in my story & profile! . Rudy’s story is a heartwarming tale of a boy born with a special heart condition. When his birth parents were unable to care for him, God chose a loving nurse and her family to be his forever family. From the moment he met them, Rudy knew he was loved. Later, when they adopted another puppy named Chase, Rudy realized their stories were similar. This story is a powerful example of God’s love and care for us, reminding us that we all have a unique purpose and destiny. . #rudyandchase #foreverfamily #foreverhome #fostercare #author #authorsofinstagram #adoption #adoptionjourney #momblogger #writersofinstagram #tealheartmama #tealheartsboutique #obedience #gospel #fostercareadoption #christianblogger #faith #chd #hlhs #hlhswarrior #heartmom #rudyandchase #godisgood #kdp #brandnew #newbookrelease #firstbook #staytuned #godsplan #godsstory #jesusitsallforyou @emmatomlin10 @cltomlin3
There are many ways you can be a support to foster youth, like becoming a mentor, donating to causes, assembling welcome bags, educating and advocating, and more. There are various organizations you can reach out to to help and be an extension to be a resource for foster youth. #resource #resources #supportchildren #advocate #mentorship
Team Peaches Miscellany. Everyone has taken to the new space, learning to play and gaining skills. Mouse is the most most coordinated by far and an equal opportunity chewer. 😉 The four fluffs are gaining their feet and getting there. Mio needs a new name so thinking on that. Clementine making progress, able to stand up some using her back legs and Hilla doing well to, but her main focus today is chewing the box. 🥰🤍😉 She needs a new name too, not working. 🤔😊 . . #austinanimalcenter #fostercare #fosterkittens #fostercareadoption #adoptme #adopt #atxfosterkittens #atxfosters #adoptdontshop #adoptdontshop🐾 #adoptdontshop🐾❤️ #fosterlife🐾
Day Six: Trauma Our kids often come to us with significant trauma that is real and difficult. And let me tell you, parenting kids who have experienced trauma is no small feat. It requires patience, humility, and lots of prayer! The effects of trauma can look vastly different based on each child and what they have experienced. We’ve experienced biting and severe tantrums, but also more subtle things like food issues and lack of emotion. And yes, infants can have trauma in utero too. These things can be hard to understand, but none of these effects are the child’s fault! This has been one of the emotionally hardest parts of foster care for us, that from the outside it looks like our child is being disobedient or our parenting looks too soft. Don’t get me wrong, we’ve yelled more than we care to admit, but when we think about the progress we have made with these behaviors, it’s never been through anger or shouting. It’s been through having a calm demeanor, hugging through the tears, and the unconditional “I love you’s.” It may seem like we’re making excuses for behaviors, but we can promise that there is so much prayer and thought that goes into how we react to a situation. For those skeptical of the effects of trauma, we encourage you to do your own research and prayer surrounding the effects of trauma on the brain! We could talk for hours on trauma lol, so maybe in the future we’ll share more💕 • • • #fostercare #fostercareawarenessmonth #fostercareadoption #fostercarefacts #fostercareawareness #childhoodtrauma #traumainformed
I got to interview journalist Roxanna Asgarian @strawburriez, whose brave, necessary, meticulously reported book, We Were Once a Family, documents the many ways that systemic racism and the child welfare system failed the six Hart children, long before their adoptive moms drove them over a cliff in 2018. Link in bio.
Day 6- TRAUMA Info taken from AdoptUSKids. ❤️🩹 #fostercareadoption #fostercareawareness #fostercareawarenessmonth #fostercare #fostertoadopt #gettooattached #nazca
#adoptablecats Spotlight Dakota & Pudge Dakota and Pudge were housemates who found themselves homeless after their human passed away. These sweet boys aren't brothers but they do like each other a lot. They are both super social, like to sit in your lap, carry on a conversation, and love to be petted. Although they don't have to be adopted together, they would probably love it if they could remain together with their friend. Pudge is an inquisitive three-year old, Dakota is an easy-going seven-year old. Both seem to like other cats, and do not appear bothered by dogs. Check out their profiles on Petfinder, or message us for more information 🐈🐈 #rescuecat #catrescue #catsforadoption #adoptdontshop #fostercats #catsofinstagram #fostercareadoption #felinefriday
#adoptablecats Spotlight Dakota & Pudge Dakota and Pudge were housemates who found themselves homeless after their human passed away. These sweet boys aren't brothers but they do like each other a lot. They are both super social, like to sit in your lap, carry on a conversation, and love to be petted. Although they don't have to be adopted together, they would probably love it if they could remain together with their friend. Pudge is an inquisitive three-year old, Dakota is an easy-going seven-year old. Both seem to like other cats, and do not appear bothered by dogs. Check out their profiles on Petfinder, or message us for more information 🐈🐈 #rescuecat #catrescue #catsforadoption #adoptdontshop #fostercats #catsofinstagram #fostercareadoption #felinefriday
It is truly heartwarming and uplifting to hear that eight, dogs have found their forever homes through adoption! This news brings immense joy, not only to the dogs themselves but also to all those who have worked tirelessly to ensure their well-being and happiness. The dedication and hard work put in by the team and fosters to match each dog with the perfect home is truly commendable. Every dog deserves a loving and caring home, and it is heartening to see Maxx, Sequoia, Megan, Luca, Charlie, Raina, Chewy,Nala now part of loving families. Their journey to finding a forever home is a testament to the compassion and dedication of everyone involved in the adoption process. As we celebrate these adoptions, let us also remember that there are many more animals out there in need of homes. Let's continue this positive momentum and strive to find loving homes for all those animals who are still waiting for their second chance. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of these wonderful creatures and give them the love and care they truly deserve. #fostercareadoption #dogsofinstagram #rescueshepherd #rescuedismyfavoritebreed #supportanimalrescuers #germanshepherdsofinstagram #dogrescue
Amy Thompson has a passion for helping foster children navigate all the changes and challenges that can come from being in care. As a Caring Hearts Case Manager, she helps each child find a stable and happy home. A former foster parent herself, Amy understands the struggles and joys that come along with serving in this unique capacity. She previously worked for Child Protective Services and has a degree in criminal justice. According to Amy, she wishes more people knew that, although foster care and adoption can be challenging, they can also be the most amazing and joyous things one can do. Meet Amy and the rest of our Caring Hearts team at the link in our bio.
Rudy’s story is a heartwarming tale of a boy born with a special heart condition. When his birth parents were unable to care for him, God chose a loving nurse and her family to be his forever family. From the moment he met them, Rudy knew he was loved. Later, when they adopted another puppy named Chase, Rudy realized their stories were similar. This story is a powerful example of God’s love and care for us, reminding us that we all have a unique purpose and destiny. . I will be sharing details how to order later today 🥰 So proud of this. Praying God uses it for HIS glory. His purpose! . #rudyandchase #foreverfamily #foreverhome #fostercare #author #authorsofinstagram #adoption #adoptionjourney #momblogger #writersofinstagram #tealheartmama #tealheartsboutique #obedience #gospel #fostercareadoption #christianblogger #faith #chd #hlhs #hlhswarrior #heartmom #rudyandchase #godisgood #kdp #brandnew #newbookrelease #firstbook #staytuned #godsplan #godsstory #jesusitsallforyou
Rudy’s story is a heartwarming tale of a boy born with a special heart condition. When his birth parents were unable to care for him, God chose a loving nurse and her family to be his forever family. From the moment he met them, Rudy knew he was loved. Later, when they adopted another puppy named Chase, Rudy realized their stories were similar. This story is a powerful example of God’s love and care for us, reminding us that we all have a unique purpose and destiny. . I will be sharing details how to order later today 🥰 So proud of this. Praying God uses it for HIS glory. His purpose! . #rudyandchase #foreverfamily #foreverhome #fostercare #author #authorsofinstagram #adoption #adoptionjourney #momblogger #writersofinstagram #tealheartmama #tealheartsboutique #obedience #gospel #fostercareadoption #christianblogger #faith #chd #hlhs #hlhswarrior #heartmom #rudyandchase #godisgood #kdp #brandnew #newbookrelease #firstbook #staytuned #godsplan #godsstory #jesusitsallforyou
Rudy’s story is a heartwarming tale of a boy born with a special heart condition. When his birth parents were unable to care for him, God chose a loving nurse and her family to be his forever family. From the moment he met them, Rudy knew he was loved. Later, when they adopted another puppy named Chase, Rudy realized their stories were similar. This story is a powerful example of God’s love and care for us, reminding us that we all have a unique purpose and destiny. . I will be sharing details how to order later today 🥰 So proud of this. Praying God uses it for HIS glory. His purpose! . #rudyandchase #foreverfamily #foreverhome #fostercare #author #authorsofinstagram #adoption #adoptionjourney #momblogger #writersofinstagram #tealheartmama #tealheartsboutique #obedience #gospel #fostercareadoption #christianblogger #faith #chd #hlhs #hlhswarrior #heartmom #rudyandchase #godisgood #kdp #brandnew #newbookrelease #firstbook #staytuned #godsplan #godsstory #jesusitsallforyou
#fostercare #fostercareawarenessmonth #fostercareawareness #fostercareadoption
🍩 You “Donut” want to miss this…🍩 May is national foster care awareness month. Have you ever considered becoming a foster parent or do you want additional information on ways you can volunteer and make a difference in the life of a child? 🧒🏼👧🏽👦👶🏾 📆 May 18th ⏰ 9:30-10:30am 📍 Edgemoor Park (630 Ridgecrest Dr. 28115) Foster and adoptive parents as well as a social worker will be present to answer any questions you may have. Come out, enjoy a donut and some family friendly casual conversations about foster care and how you can help! . . . . . #fostercarejourney #FosterCareMonth #foster #fosterparent #adoption #adoptionjourney #fostercaresupport #fostercareawarenessmonth #volunteer #fostercareadoption #fosterparents #fostercare #fostercareawareness #mooresville #nc #iredell #iredellcounty #mooresvillenc
Day Five: Biological Family I’ve learned through our foster care journey that foster care is less about welcoming a child into your home, and more about welcoming another family into your family. The most impactful and encouraging moments, believe it or not, have not always been about the children. It’s been their families. It’s been the grandmas desperately thanking you for taking care of their grandchildren. It’s been the mom who works 60+ hours a week and still finds time to attend every visit, doctor’s appointment, and court mandated training that’s thrown at her. It’s been the weekly community visits with a mom who became a dear friend through the whole process. It’s been the mom who wished me a Happy Mother’s Day as I was being mom to her child. It can be scary to initiate relationships with biological families sometimes, but ultimately, it’s not about us. We are just standing in the gap and have the incredible privilege to play a part in encouraging, loving, and restoring families. • • • #fostercare #fostercareadoption #fostercareawarenessmonth #adoption #fostercareawareness #fostercarejourney
National Foster Care Month • Day 5 • Bio Family Honestly, this is the part that made me the most nervous. I’ve always felt confident working with kids, but meeting and loving the biological family terrified me because I’m not as confident with adults. It’s not in my comfort zone. Well, as I began the training to become a foster parent through the ladies who taught the class and God softening my heart… I became SO excited for the opportunity to love on the family as a whole. It was there that I realized how much greater the impact of foster care is when we care for every member of the family. When we show love to kiddos’ parents and do what we can (depending on circumstances) to keep them connected the greater the impact can be for reunification. Working with biological families is hard especially when you have differing beliefs & ways of doing things. But I know it’s so important for the kids to see foster parents loving their bio family … which helps break down barriers and builds up trust. Even if bio family aren’t safe and healthy enough for a child to stay with… they’re still humans in need of love! I pray that through loving bio families that they can see an even greater love — God’s love!
May is #nationalfostercaremonth 💙 Here are a few ways you can help: become a foster parent, support a foster family, consider adopting from foster care. Educate yourself about the crisis and advocate for positive change. CHSVA has been supporting Virginia’s at-risk children, families, and youth for nearly 125 years! Our mission is to ensure every child has a stable family and lasting relationships. Visit our website to learn more and see how your donation can make a difference. Link in bio. Let's work together to provide a brighter future for these amazing kids! #chsva #fostercareadoption #FosterCareSupport #MakeADifference
Jungle gym. Think we're good enough on the litter box to run with this as I need to exercise the kittens legs. Out of the gate, they of course love the tissue box... always a foster fave. A sleeping box I'll flip later to become a fort and more toys... but not much better than a box and Clementine wouldn't come out. 🥰 . . #austinanimalcenter #fostercare #fosterkittens #fostercareadoption #adoptme #adopt #atxfosterkittens #atxfosters #adoptdontshop #adoptdontshop🐾 #adoptdontshop🐾❤️ #fosterlife🐾
Indi started preschool and it is crazy how much I miss her just being away from her 3 days a week. I always feel like I need a break but when either one of my girls are away I miss them so much! That being said I am getting some good quality time with Saylor that I have never gotten. #secondbornchildproblems This is our day spent mauioceancenter 🦈 We have been there so many times but it was special to experience it one on one. I got to see Saylors amazement and wonder without trying to keep up with 2 toddlers running separate directions. #mauilife #toddlersonmaui #momlife #toddlerlife #qualitytime #momlifeisthebestlife #momlifeishard #mauioceancenter #fostercareadoption #adoptionjourney #lovemakesafamily #SaylorBay
CHECK THIS OUT! The Realities of Adoption in 2024 will be happening on May 14th & it will be recorded if you cannot join us live! @poetloschil @irispbryant @angiebee82 AND @yourlifematters03 (And possibly a few others…) We will be discussing thoughts like “are babies just waiting and available to be adopted” 👀 “what are some helpful practices adoptees suggest for parents and general public to know about adoptees” … and more! Please Venmo me monarch-connections (including your email address) with you the amount denoted on the flyer. I can’t wait to see you all there! #monarchconnectionsevents #panel #qanda #monarchconnections #meaningfulconnections #virtualevents #adoption #fostercareawarenessmonth #vulnerablechildren #adoptionagency #fostercareadoption #adoptivemom #adoptivedad #fostermomlife #adopt #adopteevoicesmatter #trauma #love #identity #dei #christianfaith #adoptionannouncement
Time is almost up to grab your free copy of our newest #kidsbook. Head over to Amazon now and search for My Perfectly Muddled Journey to Space or click the link in our bio. Offer expires at 23:59 pst!!! . . . #family #adopted #adoption #adoptionstory #adoptionjourney #adoptionrocks #adoptionislove #adoptiveparents #infantadoption #lovemakesafamily #foreverfamily #foster #fostercare #fostercarer #fostercarers #fosteringsavelives #fostercare #fosterparents #fosterfamily #fosterlove #thisisfostercare #fostercareawareness #fosteryouth #fostertoadopt #fostercareadoption #fosterkids #fosterchildren #fosterparent #fosterparenting
Mason is a big time gamer and his favorite thing is playing anything he can with anyone he can! Whether it’s board games, card games, or video games, he’s always ready to learn new games and compete! He knows exactly who he is and isn’t afraid to show his true self to anyone he meets. He wants to talk about his interests, but he also definitely wants to hear about yours! We want Mason to have the permanent support and love of a family. I Belong Project uplifts the stories, faces and voices of kids in foster care who are legally free for adoption to help connect them with forever families. Help us spread the word! #family #fostercareadoption #belong
Day 4: The system: My case ended in a board room, Not a courtroom. Not with a judge. I was told, " If you relinquish your parental rights, it will be an open adoption. If you don't, it won't. " That was 6 months before my termination hearing. I was alone, beside my court appointed, useless lawyer, A caseworker who fought against me the entire time, Her foster father, And other people I never met. I learned years later that my daughter was " free to be adopted" the DAY before I entered drug & alcohol treatment, 6 months after I relinquished. 5 years after my case closed, I finally heard the words I had always hoped to hear from the agency. The caseworker who was conducting our home study on our nephews behalf said: " I read your case file. I want you to know that we try really hard to get it right...and sometimes we get it very wrong." In that moment, It felt like redemption. It wouldn't change anything for my daughter and I, But it allowed me to forgive a system I despised for years. Like I was finally being seen as a mother, Rather than a piece of garbage. Beautiful moments and families are created within the system, AND, Families continue to experience brokenness, Because the system is, Infact, broken in a multitude of ways. Caseworkers are overworked and undervalued. Their biases can often keep them from seeing the humanness of the person who stands before them. A lack of empathy can permanently damage a case, a family, and ultimately, The child it's meant to protect. I failed my children, so did the system. #nfcm #birthmom #biomom #childwelfare #abrokensystem #kinshipcare #fostercareadoption
Day 3: LOVE I didn't relinquish my parental rights because I didn't love her. I faced relinquishment because I didn't love myself. I convinced myself she deserved to be loved by people who were better than me and could provide better for her than me. I was SO wrong. They don't love her BETTER. They love her differently. Period. To this day, She knows undoubtedly, How much I love her, even from afar. She knows if I could, I would change it all just to have her in our home. She may never understand all the nuances that are involved but at the end of it all... She is loved by many, And THAT is ultimately what I wanted for her. #NFCM #fostercareadoption #birthmom #biomom