Term trial started last week. Mom was a no-show, which placed her in detault. Because of this - the defense attorney is no longer able to provide a defense for his client. This basically cuts at least 4 weeks off of the timeline.
Well, the second part of the trial was today, she was still a no-show. Her attorney requested to be released from his service since he has had no contact with her in months.
Judge heard the case (hours and hours worth) and then took a recess. Came back and TERMINATED HER RIGHTS!!!
We thought it would take weeks, since I was given info about the standard timeline. But, that timeline would include a defense and then a rebuttal.
When my caseworker called me today, I was NOT expecting that kind of news. I was seriously speechless.
My C/W comes in about 2 weeks for a visit and we will start the adoption paperwork on that day.
The father is not terminated, as he still did not have an attorney. But he was notified of her termination, and we are pretty postive that he will do an id surrender. But, he either needs an attorney for that, or declare that he is representing himself.
A trial date was set for him for next month.
OMG - one day closer to calling him our SON.
It was a mixed emotional day for me. Yes, we want to adopt him. But, his mother lost her rights to him today. As a mom, that has got to suck big time - although she does not know it yet. I have met her, and I can almost picture her face when she finds out. I think it would kill me.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Monday, March 28, 2011
My Etsy Shop
I have launched my etsy shop, where I will be selling ruffled bloomers and fabric hair clips.
I have also created a "fan page" on facebook that will list contests, new products, etc
Giggle Worm Etsy Shop
Giggle Worm Facebook Fan Page
I hope you check me out :)
I have also created a "fan page" on facebook that will list contests, new products, etc
Giggle Worm Etsy Shop
Giggle Worm Facebook Fan Page
I hope you check me out :)
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Colin's Junior Prom
Colin's Junior Prom was tonight. We actually picked up his suit the other day, so I took some pics then. Glad I did, we got a storm the next day and still have some snow on the ground.
He looks so tall in some of these pics.
He looks so tall in some of these pics.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Mediation Today
Mom was a no-show, which did not surprise anyone, not even her attorney was surprised.
Dad was there, they flew him up from out of state. He did not surrender, which is also no surprise. But, he was able to get some info from us, was able to get some understanding of the legal process, was able to GIVE us some info about him and the situation.
It was very emotional - for everyone. The CW was in tears, Lil J's attorney was in tears, we were in tears, dad was in tears - you get the idea.
Learned some very personal things about dad, and also some random things that will allow us to talk more casually to Lil J about him (where he grew up, what his favorite sports team is, what he likes to do, etc)
We are pretty confident that dad will do an identified surrender, maybe even in the next week or so. It is a lot for him.
He takes a DNA test, proves to be the father, gets a 20 page medical form to fill out, advised about TPR trial and / or surrender, gets hit with thousands of child support bills, etc, all within about a month. It's a lot to take in.
Since mom was a no show, we just talked with dad. We told him we would keep him updated with photos and he said he would write a letter that maybe would say a little more about himself, and that wehn Lil J is old enough, he could read it himself.
I think we had really good communicaiton with dad. So, I guess we made SOME progress today.
Dad was there, they flew him up from out of state. He did not surrender, which is also no surprise. But, he was able to get some info from us, was able to get some understanding of the legal process, was able to GIVE us some info about him and the situation.
It was very emotional - for everyone. The CW was in tears, Lil J's attorney was in tears, we were in tears, dad was in tears - you get the idea.
Learned some very personal things about dad, and also some random things that will allow us to talk more casually to Lil J about him (where he grew up, what his favorite sports team is, what he likes to do, etc)
We are pretty confident that dad will do an identified surrender, maybe even in the next week or so. It is a lot for him.
He takes a DNA test, proves to be the father, gets a 20 page medical form to fill out, advised about TPR trial and / or surrender, gets hit with thousands of child support bills, etc, all within about a month. It's a lot to take in.
Since mom was a no show, we just talked with dad. We told him we would keep him updated with photos and he said he would write a letter that maybe would say a little more about himself, and that wehn Lil J is old enough, he could read it himself.
I think we had really good communicaiton with dad. So, I guess we made SOME progress today.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Picture Post :)
Just a picture post.
1 - "St Pat's" pics (yes, a little early lol)
2 - Proof that Cora does actually have some hair. Taken right after her bath. It does not stay like that though (as seen in the first pic)
3 - We switched Elsie into the convertible carseat. Actually did a big carseat switch-a-roo. Got a new seat for Lil J, so Cora got his seat, and then Elsie got Cora's seat.
1 - "St Pat's" pics (yes, a little early lol)
2 - Proof that Cora does actually have some hair. Taken right after her bath. It does not stay like that though (as seen in the first pic)
3 - We switched Elsie into the convertible carseat. Actually did a big carseat switch-a-roo. Got a new seat for Lil J, so Cora got his seat, and then Elsie got Cora's seat.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Today is J DAY
Today marks 2 years that Lil J has been with us. He has been in care for about 2 weeks more, he stayed with a friend of a friend for a few days, then was with another foster family.
That foster family could not "deal" with him. Basically - they had a bio child the same age as Lil J and the two kids did not get along at all. He was her first foster child that was not family.
She decided to disrupt.
I am actually on another message board and she was on the same board (it had a board just for NJ foster care). After in her car for only a few days, she started writing about how she can to "get rid" of him. The problems she was having, etc
At first, I did not want to get involved. Why would I want to take the kid with huge problems (yeah, I know - there is no perfect child)? But, I kinda read through the lines and figured out that it was probably HER kid that was the problem, and not so much with Lil J.
We talked, I talked to his caseworker, spoke to my caseworker, and then I decided to meet Lil J.
Seriously, the day we met (yesterday 2 yrs ago), I knew that we wanted him in our home. After meeting him, and playing with him for about 2 hours, I KNEW that he was not this horrible child that she was describing. Just a 3 yr old boy that was just ripped from his mother.
I talked with the caseworker again and agreed that we would like to place him in our home. There was some paperwork to be done and she would let me know if he was coming. It was less than 24 hours later that he arrived.
I was so nervous waiting for THE CALL. In fact, the call came when I was driving my friend to the airport (1+ hour away). I probably drove faster than I should have lol. I get the call that he is coming, and a few hours later - there he was.
He showed up with the clothes on his back, a pair of PJs, 5 diapers and ONE matchbox car. He shoes were too sizes too small, his hair/scalp were in rough shape due to lack of proper care, and he was under weight
How could I not love this child? Of course the next few days are a blur - he cried out for his mommy, tore my heart apart. But, he quickly settled in to our family, and our house became his HOME.
I am not going to lie, it was HARD in the begining. We had to deal with really bad food issues, and behaviour issues. But, in the end - he is awesome. We still struggle with things, and are working through them. But, he has come so far. Physically, Emotionally, Pychologically.
I seriously can not wait to show his face - even that has changed so much. One day soon, he will be OUR son.
That foster family could not "deal" with him. Basically - they had a bio child the same age as Lil J and the two kids did not get along at all. He was her first foster child that was not family.
She decided to disrupt.
I am actually on another message board and she was on the same board (it had a board just for NJ foster care). After in her car for only a few days, she started writing about how she can to "get rid" of him. The problems she was having, etc
At first, I did not want to get involved. Why would I want to take the kid with huge problems (yeah, I know - there is no perfect child)? But, I kinda read through the lines and figured out that it was probably HER kid that was the problem, and not so much with Lil J.
We talked, I talked to his caseworker, spoke to my caseworker, and then I decided to meet Lil J.
Seriously, the day we met (yesterday 2 yrs ago), I knew that we wanted him in our home. After meeting him, and playing with him for about 2 hours, I KNEW that he was not this horrible child that she was describing. Just a 3 yr old boy that was just ripped from his mother.
I talked with the caseworker again and agreed that we would like to place him in our home. There was some paperwork to be done and she would let me know if he was coming. It was less than 24 hours later that he arrived.
I was so nervous waiting for THE CALL. In fact, the call came when I was driving my friend to the airport (1+ hour away). I probably drove faster than I should have lol. I get the call that he is coming, and a few hours later - there he was.
He showed up with the clothes on his back, a pair of PJs, 5 diapers and ONE matchbox car. He shoes were too sizes too small, his hair/scalp were in rough shape due to lack of proper care, and he was under weight
How could I not love this child? Of course the next few days are a blur - he cried out for his mommy, tore my heart apart. But, he quickly settled in to our family, and our house became his HOME.
I am not going to lie, it was HARD in the begining. We had to deal with really bad food issues, and behaviour issues. But, in the end - he is awesome. We still struggle with things, and are working through them. But, he has come so far. Physically, Emotionally, Pychologically.
I seriously can not wait to show his face - even that has changed so much. One day soon, he will be OUR son.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Craigsli.st Score and creative stitching (Pics at the bottom)
I seriously don't think there is a perfect double stroller. Side by Sides (SBS) have advantanges, and tandem have advantages as well.
I bought a tandem while still pregnant, and while it works for now since Elsie is still in the carseat carrier, which kinda snaps in the back of the tandem. But, after using this stroller (which I bought at a consignment shop), I realized that I wanted a SBS.
I am not a snob by any means. But, I really had my eye on a specific stroller. This stroller purchased new costs about $500. I wanted it for several reasons. I mean it is not the most beautiful stroller, but function outweighs fashion. There are plenty of more expensive doubles out there....but also other for far less.
Well, being a $500 stroller, we can't afford it. I have been looking on crai.gslist every day, in several areas, looking for this stroller. And, since I live in boonie land - I was willing to travel upto 2 hours for this stroller if I was getting a good deal. Yes, that says 2 hours! for a stroller. That is how bad I wanted this stroller.
I contacted several people, but since this is a very popular stroller, many other people contacted sellers as well. Last week, I finally thought my luck turned around. I was going to buy a used one for $200, which is STILL a lot of money for us. It was 1 hr 45 minutes away. I was willing to make the drive. the guy told me he was only available on sunday - so I rearranged my plans and we were going to make the drive. Well, I am glad I checked my e-mail before we left. He sold it to someone the day before. It got me annoyed since he "promised" to sell it to me and he was the one that said he was only available on the sunday. Whatever.
So, today I see one listed, and listed for a STEAL. The ad said the it was is "good used condition" But also had "wear and tear because it was used by 3 yr old boys" They said that the wheels should be replaced. But, the cost of the stroller + the cost of the new wheels would still make it a good bargain.
So, I committed to buying it and was selected to purchase it. It was 1 hr 20 minutes from my house. Well, I get there and the stroller is in FAR worse condition than what was dipicted. there were very large tears, big rips, areas that where the fabric was shredded. I had to make a split decision and bought it. The second I left, I knew it was a mistake. I was so upset that I was so stupid, and did not tell the women - "you are crazy if you think this is good used condition. BUt, I figured that maybe I could just resell it as soon as I got home. The price I paid is still a great price for the condition, but it is not the condition that I wanted.
I actually called my friend all upset....yes, about a stroller. I got home and took tons of pictures with the thought that I would create my own ad. But, then I brought the stroller inside. And, then I looked at it. And, then I tried to figure out if I should try to salvalage it, and keep it. I even called the company to see if I could get a new seat covering (at almost $150 - yikes)
Well, it took tons of creative stitching, folding fabric, stitching every which way. But, I think I got it to a place where it looks "OK" It does not look as bad, not great, not brand new, but OK. Even with the stitching, it still looks like it has lots of wear and tear. But, I think I can live with it. Even if it is not the color I wanted lol.
So, here are my before and after pics. Note that the before pics were taken outside and the afters were inside - so all the colors don't match - but you get the idea. The pics really do not do it justice, since the befores looked much worse in person. the pics are small, so click on each one to see as a larger pic.
I bought a tandem while still pregnant, and while it works for now since Elsie is still in the carseat carrier, which kinda snaps in the back of the tandem. But, after using this stroller (which I bought at a consignment shop), I realized that I wanted a SBS.
I am not a snob by any means. But, I really had my eye on a specific stroller. This stroller purchased new costs about $500. I wanted it for several reasons. I mean it is not the most beautiful stroller, but function outweighs fashion. There are plenty of more expensive doubles out there....but also other for far less.
Well, being a $500 stroller, we can't afford it. I have been looking on crai.gslist every day, in several areas, looking for this stroller. And, since I live in boonie land - I was willing to travel upto 2 hours for this stroller if I was getting a good deal. Yes, that says 2 hours! for a stroller. That is how bad I wanted this stroller.
I contacted several people, but since this is a very popular stroller, many other people contacted sellers as well. Last week, I finally thought my luck turned around. I was going to buy a used one for $200, which is STILL a lot of money for us. It was 1 hr 45 minutes away. I was willing to make the drive. the guy told me he was only available on sunday - so I rearranged my plans and we were going to make the drive. Well, I am glad I checked my e-mail before we left. He sold it to someone the day before. It got me annoyed since he "promised" to sell it to me and he was the one that said he was only available on the sunday. Whatever.
So, today I see one listed, and listed for a STEAL. The ad said the it was is "good used condition" But also had "wear and tear because it was used by 3 yr old boys" They said that the wheels should be replaced. But, the cost of the stroller + the cost of the new wheels would still make it a good bargain.
So, I committed to buying it and was selected to purchase it. It was 1 hr 20 minutes from my house. Well, I get there and the stroller is in FAR worse condition than what was dipicted. there were very large tears, big rips, areas that where the fabric was shredded. I had to make a split decision and bought it. The second I left, I knew it was a mistake. I was so upset that I was so stupid, and did not tell the women - "you are crazy if you think this is good used condition. BUt, I figured that maybe I could just resell it as soon as I got home. The price I paid is still a great price for the condition, but it is not the condition that I wanted.
I actually called my friend all upset....yes, about a stroller. I got home and took tons of pictures with the thought that I would create my own ad. But, then I brought the stroller inside. And, then I looked at it. And, then I tried to figure out if I should try to salvalage it, and keep it. I even called the company to see if I could get a new seat covering (at almost $150 - yikes)
Well, it took tons of creative stitching, folding fabric, stitching every which way. But, I think I got it to a place where it looks "OK" It does not look as bad, not great, not brand new, but OK. Even with the stitching, it still looks like it has lots of wear and tear. But, I think I can live with it. Even if it is not the color I wanted lol.
So, here are my before and after pics. Note that the before pics were taken outside and the afters were inside - so all the colors don't match - but you get the idea. The pics really do not do it justice, since the befores looked much worse in person. the pics are small, so click on each one to see as a larger pic.
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