I came from court and cried most of the way home. Was it relief, regret, or worry for my one remaining kiddo? Probably some of these reasons and more... So this evening I drug out the photo albums and reviewed my life and times as a foster parent.
On the right is our first foster child in 1974... Today she is 49 years old. Can you believe someone let us parent her. We were just children!
I prayed every day that that I could be a positive difference in the lives of these children.
I pray today that I was that difference.
It is time.
I'm getting ready to begin the next chapter in my life. Today I became the short timer.
I'm sure you made more of a difference in these young peoples' lives than you'll ever know.
ReplyDeleteI never actually know.... but in my heart I do. If by no other way... they know that someone cared enough to step up when needed. Thanks
DeleteCongrats in stepping over that chasm. That is the hard part of change, making that first full step in a new direction. Good luck with the rest of the process.
ReplyDeleteYep, it is a process. I try to not look to far ahead. Just celebrating the moment of each new step!
DeleteIt's hard to stop doing something that has been such a huge part of your life. However, you have earned a rest. I'm sure those who passed through your doors will always remember the positive influence you had on their lives.
ReplyDeleteThanks Donna. Yep now I'll have time to figure out what I want to do when I grow up... If I grow up!
DeleteCongratulations on taking that step. Sometimes the hardest part of change is making a decision. Look forward to you new life.
ReplyDeleteYep particularly when it has been such a big part of my life. I am at peace with the decision. But the devil is in the details. I still worry!
DeleteWow. I can't imagine being such a force in so many kids' lives. Even teachers have only nine months to make a difference. My hat is off to you.
ReplyDeleteDon't crown me for sainthood. I just did what was in my heart to do. Put your hat back on... your feathers are messy! (much thanks tho really)
ReplyDeleteBless you for all you have done for children! And congratulations for knowing that it is time for you to move on. I admire the life you have had helping others, and for having the 'guts' to now follow your dream.
ReplyDeleteThanks Cori.... and here is to many more glamping and camping days to spend together!
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ReplyDeleteCongratulations !!!! What a leap of faith to move on and give yourself some R&R ...... You will never know all the good you have done through your time and effort .... Needless to say your reward will be great upstairs with the Good Lord .... Enjoy your new path ....
Yep and I definitely want to enjoy some of the sights soon, in this lifetime!
DeleteI'm so behind in reading. I apologize for missing this very big step in your life. You have done a wonderful wonderful thing for all those children. Above and beyond what nearly anyone could do. And now you are doing something wonderful for yourself. I hope some of these children are still in contact with you and you can see what a difference you made in their lives.
ReplyDeleteOn to the excitement of a new life for you. Can't wait to follow as you move into it.
Thank you so much for what you've done to make better the lives of the little children. Don't be modest. It's a big undertaking and you are wonderful for having devoted your life to it.
Yep, I do have contact with some of the kiddo's. Not as many as I would like but some of them were to young to be able to know how to get in touch even if they wanted to. I have trusted all these years that they understand the love and concern I have always had for them.
DeleteI am truly looking forward in my life to the adventures ahead. Hoping that we will cross paths in the pursuit of our dreams. Thank-you so much for the kind words. Karen
I KNOW that you have made a huge positive impact on many lives. I have seen this many, many times! How proud I am of YOU! There are many more good times ahead of you. Just follow the next hill or valley. The world is waiting for you>. Love You. Auntie
ReplyDeleteLove you too Auntie and I am excited to share many more adventures with you
ReplyDeleteYou did something wonderful that will forever have an impact on many lives. Now it's time to take care of "you!"
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