Where do we go from here?

I thought I'd let you all know what comes now that I have the long awaited license.

I am licensed to take in girls age 0-9 years old with any of the following illnesses: cerebral palsy, down syndrome, spina bifida or hydrocephalous. Though that is on my paperwork, basically any physical disability or special need will be considered if the courts call with something different. I am only taking girls because even though the house is huge, there are not enough bedrooms to have both boys and girls. In the future, I hope to have enough space/houses to have both boys and girls.

I anticipate most of the children will be a little older (not babies). Not all disabilities and illnesses are evident immediately and so they may not be abandoned until later. Or, a family is aware of the disability, but they want to try and do the best they can for as long as they can. But if I'm being honest, I would like at least one little cuddly baby!

Now I wait for the courts to contact me. CNA automatically gives out our information and profile to all the courts in the country, but the social worker and I will visit the provinces nearest us to present ourselves to the judges so they know who we are and what we do.

If a family feels like they need help, or want to give their child up, they (with our help) can petition the courts to have their daughter placed with us. But I know that there already many abused and abandoned children out there so I'd rather help those already living in hospitals. That doesn't mean I wouldn't help a family that is truly in need, but I want to start with those already abandoned or removed from their home.

Once the court has contacted us, and we agree to take the child, the paperwork is processed and I go to pick her up wherever she is. Then she comes home with us!!!!

This could be anywhere from today, to 2 or 3 weeks from now. As I have already learned, paperwork sometimes takes a long time! But they will come.

I have nannies, therapists, dr's, psychologists, teachers a housekeeper, and myself, all ready to make this child's life the best it can be. I can't wait! Though again, if I'm being honest, I'm nervous. I've lived alone and childless for most of the last 14 years. I have had a roommate or two, but only for a few years. So now you can all pray for me. For patience, for peace, for energy and for a desire to be around people 24/7!

So that is where it stands. You know I will be posting pictures and news as soon as I get my first little munchkin!