Shared Parenting

[Tiramisu]

I have one younger sister. She has two biological sons (34yo & 30yo), three adopted daughters (22yo, 15yo, 7yo), and one adopted son (6yo). My sis and her hubby have fostered around 60 children in 25 years.

The 22yo (Courtney) did well academically in school, but is not having much luck "getting out in the world". She's very introverted. She went to college for 3 days, enlisted in the Air Force for a month, and has worked at every dollar store and wal-mart within driving distance. GUESS WHERE SHE IS NOW - my house! I'm going to give her the best chance I can offer. She'll essentially stay with us (rent free) and work (probably Wal-Mart) around her school schedule. We're hoping that she can cope with college with us keeping her motivated.

I have one younger brother whose wife died about five years ago, leaving him with a 10yo daughter. He's never been the same and is continuing to struggle. Jessica stayed with us for about three years while he moved back to LA to live with our Mom. She did well with us, but wanted to be with her Dad. They did OK with Mom until they got a little house and have both bottomed out, turning into depressed hermits. GUESS WHO IS COMING TO LIVE WITH ME - when school goes out! I haven't seen her since Christmas, but she told my Mom that she wants to come back to be with me. Her grades are bad and her hygiene is horrible. My guess is that she has no self esteem. Jess is a great kid. I hope I can "save" her. I want to go get her now, but she said she'd be OK for another month.

God knew what was best when I wanted to sale our big house and move to a small lake house! I'm just glad that I'm getting younger, eventhough I won't be retiring next year like I wanted!

[judy]

Bless your soul! I'd say the world needs you. There are some rare people who can and will take in others' children and love them and care for them like you do. It seems like your siste and her husband do this too. It runs in the family?

I so admire what you're doing, and I'm so glad you're here to share it with us.

[Chandra Amaya]

I admire you as well. I think the best thing a child can have is love and support. It seems like you have much of this to give. Best of luck to you and the children and remember if you want to scream when they are driving you mad, we are here to listen.

[DianaB]

It sounds like you've been blessed with the gift of nurturing. I hope that things go well and you're able to encourage these girls to overcome their problems. You're very brave!

[Gina]

Bless you and your sister whom sounds like a great person too. You will have your hands full but I know you will make a difference in your niece's life. She needs a stable enviroment with a loving female who can guide her. Not that your mom isn't but she is older and you will have more patience with a teenager.. Your a good person.

[Taurus Babe]

You are a truely wonderful person. I know you will greatly impact these kids lifes...

[teri88]

They are both very lucky to have you! Good luck and I hope it all works out. God bless you for being so good!

[Emmsmom]

I think it is great that you are able to help them out. I also think it is great that you all are so close. That is one thing I wish I had....I hope all goes well for you and your family.