Going from 5-7 children!

Have 7 children isn't all that difficult. I'm good with my own but I'm awesome with other peoples kids. I seem to have higher expectations for my own. With other peoples kids I can be more laid back, grins, giggles and fun. I had to be strict as these children went from raising themselves to now needing boundaries set. We did have to be super cautious and watchful as these children have been exposed to a crazy home environment and I didnt want to leave any opportunity for any of that being relived in our home. It did feel at times a huge hassle getting 7 children all dressed and out the door to two separate schools on time and then having to homeschool my 5! That part was a little crazy. I think when we adopt we will only take in younger children because that was a juggling act for sure. When I dropped off the tween at high school I looked out at all of those children and wondered "which of these kids is also homeless? " "which of them is in foster care or living with relatives?" Which of them didn't have relatives to live with in similar circumstances.

High school is such a critical point in life anyway. It's such a time of searching, seeking and coming into your own. It's the period of figuring out how to make your way in this world.. Add to the confusion of adolescence, homelessness and family turmoil, all while trying to fit in, be normal, and get good grades. These kids have had a lot to bear. I can relate to their struggle. The boy is bright and witty, he is parentified and has often times had to take care of the parents, who act startlingly enough, like children. The girl concerns me more as she will do anything to fit it in. Not unlike the chameleon that changes with it's environment. She is sweet and has so much potential. She too, is older than her years. It's sad to me that she is only a year older than my own. Yet she knows far to much about a great many things, much more jaded. I see a bit of myself as a kid in both of them. I tell them they are not their parents and that they can do great things if they let God use their lives. They respond well to boundaries and for the most part listen. It is a relief I'm sure to be able to just be children. They seem very (and this is what they tell you in the foster classes NEVER to expect) surprisingly GRATEFUL! This song reminds me of the children.

Three in the morning and I'm still awake
So I picked up a pen and a page
And I started writing just what I'd say
If we were face to face
I'd tell you just what you mean to me
Tell you these simple truths:

Be strong in the Lord and never give up hope
You're gonna do great things, I already know
God's got His hand on You so don't live life in fear
Forgive and forget but don't forget why you're here
Take your time and pray
These are the words I would say

Last time we spoke, you said you were hurting
And I felt your pain in my heart
I want to tell you that I keep on praying
Love will find you where you are
I know 'cause I've already been there
So please hear these simple truths:

From one simple life to another
I will say, come find peace in the Father

Be strong in the Lord and never give up hope
You're gonna do great things, I already know
God's got His hand on You so don't live life in fear
Forgive and forget but don't forget why you're here
Take your time and pray
And thank God for each day
His love will find a way
These are the words I would say