Class #2

Today we had our 2nd PRIDE (Parent Resource for Information, Development and Education) Class. A lot of it really is simply common sense (especially for those of us that already have kids). Today we were talking about how children are affected by all sorts of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual, etc). I'm not sure if I've just heard too much in my lifetime because today's class didn't affect me like it seemed to affect others. Although I don't like hearing about these cases, I can't say that anything actually surprised me. I'm sure, if we end up with a child thats been subjected to any sort of abuse and/or neglect, things will be much more emotional. Its much easier to put on the "tough girl" face and just take in the facts when its not directly affecting your life right at that moment.

We also talked to Cheyenne a bit more when we picked her up. We explained that her new brother/sister may be scared and may act that out. She's such an understanding little girl and truly amazes me! Again, once that new brother/sister is here, it won't be as easy for her, either.

We also found out that, while we're allowed to (and encouraged) to have pictures of our new children in the house, we cannot share their pictures with others. I was not too surprised that we couldn't post them online. I was, however, very surprised to learn that we cannot send pictures to family/friends via e-mail or even snail mail or handing them a picture. This is going to be hard because, as with any new child, you just want to show them off because you're so proud. However, until the adoption is final (at least 6 months), we cannot share those pictures. Considering how many pictures we take at family events, thats going to be very difficult.

One really cool part ~ We've now completed enough hours for the State of CA! All we need to be licensed by the State of CA now is to have them come out to do our home study. We won't be able to be placed w/children until we've completed everything for the County of Riverside, but its nice to know that we've done everything for the State that we can. Now we wait for their phone call for our home study..........