It has been a year...

Lil J came into our home one year ago. The past year have been one of the most stressful yet rewarding year.

Of course over the last year, there have been many ups and downs. We delt with behavior problems, severe food issues, really bad things with the bio mom, court problems, the list goes on and on.

But, we also dealt with getting hugs and kisses, teaching a "broken" boy how to love, giving love to someone that some never thought was possible, seeing a little boy become a great big brother, and seeing excitement through the eyes of a child.

Our family is forever changed by this little boy - and not just MY family, but my parents, my sisters, my husband's family, extended cousins, etc, etc.

Our lives are forever changed by this little boy. Even if he were to go back to his mom (NOT likely), we feel as though the last year would forever change the rest of our lives.

OK - OK

enough sappy stuff

We had court the other day. Court was a Permancy Hearing. All the very bad stuff that has happened in the last year was brought up. The judge had gotten a (very) long write up of the case as well. Not only was the last year brought up, but also her long CPS history with other children, as well her entire criminal history.

At the end of the day, the judge DECLARED that it is unsafe and immoral to return the child to his mother (at this time). And the lawyers for CPS have until April 19th to submit the formal request to terminate her rights.

Although the request will be submitted, we still have a very long road ahead of us. Bio mom will probably contest the termination of rights, and then appeal the decision when they are terminated. etc etc.

There have been some issues with court - mainly due to the fact that bio mom lives in another state - and she is fighting certain jurisdiction issues. But, no matter what state, her issues would never allow her to get him back.

so, there is the update - sorry it was so long