we will have four kids on tuesday!

**hmcart** · 12-31-2009, 01:06 PM

I dont think I have gone into too much detail about our situation here but on Halloween my 10 yr old sister was safe placed with us after some unfortunate events. Had we not taken her she would have most likely went into foster care. We already have 3 kids of our own. We went into this knowing that we could end up with her premanently but didnt expect that to happen for some time as there are court issues that go along with her situation. I got a call on monday from her caseworker and it turns out that our mother, whom I dont have a close relationship with, has decided to sign over legal custody permanently to us next week when we go to court! My sisters biological father is older and has some health issues making it hard for him to care for her long term and she does go to his house every other weekend. She also draws SSI since he is retired and that helps alot with the additional expense of another child so she is not a financial burden at all. As far as our other kids go they are all on board with her being here for good. SO please keep us in your prayers. I do know for her it is a bitter sweet time considering the circumstances.

**mauimagic** · 12-31-2009, 01:40 PM

Sending prayers and aloha to all of your family. She is so lucky to have you!! Mahalo for being the person you are!!

**ladytoysdream** · 12-31-2009, 01:59 PM

Sounds like things are coming together nicely. Thanks for being there for your sister

**mountainbum** · 12-31-2009, 03:28 PM

hmcart, I read your other posts and wanted to tell you what a wonderful thing you are doing for your sister. Her story is somewhat similar to mine - my mother died when I was 7 (suicide) and my father was not willing or able, I'm not sure which, to raise a child on his own as he was an alcoholic and had a "girlfriend", which was the reason my mom did what she did. I had 2 brothers who were 13 and 15 years older than me (I was an "oops" baby!), and my oldest brother, who was 23 at the time, and his wife who was 21, decided to take me in. They already had 2 kids of their own who were 1 and 3. I was an extremely spoiled brat who never knew what discipline was, so they were taking on quite a challenge. They let me know that I was loved and what was expected of me, and I can honestly say that if it wasn't for their love and generosity I do not know what would have happened to me. I was raised as their daughter and I have always called their kids my brother and sister. Everything I am I owe to them. Your love and willingness to help her will have a huge impact on her life, more than you even realize. Your family will definitely be in my thoughts and prayers, and your sister is definitely blessed to have you!

**hmcart** · 12-31-2009, 04:42 PM

my sister was taken out of an abusive situation with a new step father. Our mother decided to chose him over her. I will be honest..this has not been easy but at least we can start to get into a routine again. Now that we will officially have four kids we have to look into a larger second vehicle. We have been saving by not having a second car for a while but we are planning on shopping smart for this one and hopefully paying cash!

**hotprincesscm** · 12-31-2009, 04:52 PM

I'm so happy for your sister and you! You are doing a wonderful thing taking her into your family and raising her as your own! She's so lucky to have you! My prayers are with your family!

**Backtoreality** · 12-31-2009, 10:05 PM

hmcart, no it is not easy, but oh soooo worth it. We took in DH's nephew 20 years ago. His father was abusive and killed his mother (plus 2 others). Nephew was living at another uncles for about 2 months - they couldn't handle him and literally dropped him off at our house with a "it's here or foster care". DH & I looked at each other and decided that he was going to be ours. It was very hard the first few years, but I would not have changed a single moment of it. He is one of the joys in our marriage.

**shoiji** · 01-01-2010, 10:57 AM

Will be sending warm thoughts your way. It is wonderful you can open your home to your sister.

**nessarowdy** · 01-01-2010, 11:58 AM

What a great sister you are! Will be praying for you and your family during this transition period. Congrats, as well!

-Vanessa

**gottadance** · 01-01-2010, 12:23 PM

You are doing a wonderful, meaningful thing - you're probably saving your sister's life. Kudos to you and wishing your expanded family comfort and closeness.

**Monner 1** · 01-01-2010, 12:39 PM

The way things are falling into place it seems that it is meant to be. Blessings to you and your husband and children for having a big heart and take her into your home. I am sure she will be forever thankful to you.

Monner

**mombottoo** · 01-02-2010, 09:31 AM

It is wonderful that you & your family are able to be there for your baby sister when she needs you the most. You and yours will be in my thoughts & my prayers.

**kettel6** · 01-02-2010, 01:47 PM

You are doing a wonderful thing and having four kiddos around is cake. I did it for years until my oldest moved away to live with his father. I think having an odd number of three, five, etc. is what is difficult. You can do it and it will all be worth it in the end.