Normal

This morning we had the privilege of spending time with many other foster families from around our city. There was a a walk raising money and awareness for local foster care. We couldn't stay for the whole event, but we were able to see some of the staff from our agency as well as other foster parents. My kids were able to play with other kids who understand a life that includes foster siblings, social workers, visits with biological family, etc. No one asked for our story. We were just a family along with all the others.

As I walked by with the kids one of the organizers commented, "now that's a good looking family". I smiled and acknowledged that we stand out in a crowd. Another gentlemen standing by just laughed and said, "go stand next to my family, you'll fit right in." His family is larger than mine, includes special needs children, and is similarly diverse. His warmth and understanding was a big encouragement to me.

As we were leaving, we stopped to speak to a couple that we met during our training. They have had their first foster placement almost exactly as long as we have. The situations are eerily similar, and I enjoyed talking to the other mom for just a few minutes. My sweet girl joined the conversation and was able to ask a few questions as well. The other foster mom encouraged my girl, and made her feel important and needed in this fostering stuff.

I really needed the encouragement of today. I really needed to feel like this very unnatural thing can be very normal. I needed my kids to see that their are other children who have foster siblings in their life too. Today I feel encouraged right in the spot that I most needed encouragement.