Day 111: Christmas Day

Christmas was a magical time here with my Houston family. There is nothing more special than spending Christmastime with children. The joy and excitement in their eyes make it all worthwhile. I am so blessed. Thank you Father, for giving me these precious souls to spend this holy time with. What a wonderful Christmas! It was one I will never forget.

 My sweet little elf :)

Christmas morning caroling in our PJs!

Family band ;)

We wish you a merry Christmas...

Santa was so good to us!

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy." - Matthew 2:10

Day 95: The Holiday Spirit

It's that time of year again! Christmas is coming soon and our home is filled with the holiday spirit. We've decorated our tree, started our Christmas countdown, and made homemade ornaments. The kids did a great job! They are so excited for Santa to come visit. The "Elf on the Shelf" is making sure they're behaving and will report back to Santa ;)

Decorating the tree!

:)

In other news, the four of us were able to have a day out together last Wednesday. We went to Galveston, which is a beach town about an hour away from Houston. We rode the ferry, spotted lots of dolphins, and explored the cute little town. After that, we drove back to Houston for a nice dinner downtown. It was great to be able to have some time off together. Of course, we spent most of the time talking about the kids and wondering how they were doing!

Enjoying Galveston...

London?? Nope, just Galveston :)

I also have some good and bad news. We'll start with the bad: our little baby girl was discharged from our care a few days ago. She is an adorable, sweet baby and we're so sad to see her go. However, I know that God has her safely in the palm of His hands. May He bless and protect her in this next stage of her life. Now for some good news: We have a new baby boy! He's also adorable and sweet (although, what baby isn't??) and has the biggest, brightest eyes! I am so thankful that God has entrusted us with this precious new life. Just in time for Christmas!

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16

Day 84: The Little Things

Life is all about the little things. Things like my little man pulling his baby sister in the wagon, all by himself. It was a perfect evening. Right before it got dark, a little chill in the air, just me and the three kiddos riding around the neighborhood in our red wagon. Looking back at them, I had to stop and smile. We shared a happy moment with God, the four of us together. His presence was tangible. Thank you, Lord Jesus. For all the little moments You have given me with these children. I never imagined I would love them so much. I am so thankful for every moment I get to spend with their sweet faces.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above." - James 1:17

Day 79: Thanksgiving

Although this Thanksgiving was filled with a heavy heart due to a missing piece, it was a day full of thanks and love! Our sweet 6-year-old is onto the next chapter of his childhood and we are all praying for his well-being. May his life be filled with God's love and all the sweet childhood innocence that he so desperately deserves. We are loving you always. With that being said, our home was still a happy one on this lovely holiday. We ate so much. Turkey, cornbread stuffing (a Texas tradition), sweet potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, and PIE! The whole dinner was donated (thank you, sweet volunteers!) and everything was absolutely delicious. We got up early, stayed in our PJs for awhile, watched the parade, dressed up the kids real cute, went outside for our own little "turkey parade" around the neighborhood, ate two huge meals, and had a wonderful day together as a family. We even filled the kids with enough tryptophan for a nice long nap!

I was able to video chat with my family as well, which was so nice. It feels so different being here in Houston during this time of year. 80 degrees on Thanksgiving?? That just isn't right :) Although I am feeling homesick this holiday season, I couldn't imagine being anywhere else but right here with these amazing children. I'm in love with each and every one of them. I was just standing there today, looking at their smiling faces, thinking how lucky I am to know them. I just wish I could know them forever. Yesterday's goodbye brought the realization that I will have to say goodbye to all of these beautiful souls. Their future is in God's hands alone. May He protect and guide them always.

"Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name." - 1 Chronicles 29:13

Day 77: Saying Goodbye

Today was a hard day - a day filled with anxiety, sadness, confusion, and one very tear-filled goodbye. It was an unimaginably difficult day for my sweet six-year-old boy. To undergo so much adversity at such a young age is truly impossible for me to comprehend. I have been begging God all day to fill his beautiful soul with the strength and courage he needs to overcome these hard times. Life can be so unfair.

On the day before Thanksgiving, a time for family and friends to gather together in love, our sweet boy was moved from our home and relocated. I am still confused by the whole process and do not fully understand the reasoning, but I pray that God takes this situation into His capable hands and leads our boy to a loving home. He deserves all the love in the world.

Trying to explain to him that he'll be leaving us for a new home was the most difficult moment I've had as a foster parent so far. How can a six-year-old be expected to understand? "I won't be here for Thanksgiving? I want to stay here with you." What do I say to that? All I could do was hold him close and wipe away his tears. God is with you, buddy. We'll miss you and love you forever.

"The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles." - Psalm 34:17

Day 74: The Joys of the Overnight

Last night, on the overnight shift with our precious baby girl (who is almost TWO months already!), I had a beautiful moment with God. Lying there, with her sweet head on my shoulder, eyelids fluttering as she slept soundly, I couldn't help but smile in utter joy. I thought to myself, "Wow, I am so lucky. So lucky that on this night, God has entrusted this beautiful life to me." It was in this moment that life felt absolutely perfect. I spent some time just watching her sleep, praying that God would guide her through the trials and tribulations that will inevitably enter her life, as they enter all of our earthly lives. Although she'll certainly have her share of hardship, on this night, she knows only love. Thanks be to God.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." - Romans 15:13

Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Read more: http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/bible-verses-about-joy-20-uplifting-scripture-quotes/#ixzz2CbXEPSkt

Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Read more: http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/bible-verses-about-joy-20-uplifting-scripture-quotes/#ixzz2CbXEPSkt

Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Read more: http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/bible-verses-about-joy-20-uplifting-scripture-quotes/#ixzz2CbXEPSkt

Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Read more: http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/bible-verses-about-joy-20-uplifting-scripture-quotes/#ixzz2CbXEPSkt

Day 65: Enjoying Everyday Life

As hinted in the title of this post, I attended a Joyce Meyer conference last night here in Houston at Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church. I went with a couple other houseparents and had such an enjoyable night full of praise, worship, and wonderful biblical insights from Joyce. The theme of her message last night was celebrating everyday life: focusing on the positives and giving your burdens to God. As Christians, we hear this message a lot. However, it's often so difficult to do and I definitely needed the reminder! As a foster parent to five beautiful children, the monotony of routine can easily creep in and sabotage the simple joys of everyday life. I need to take time out each day to just sit in appreciation of my life and all the amazing people in it. I need to revel in the laughter of our kids and let go of my mental "to-do list" every now and then! It's moments like these that will stay with me forever. Sweeping all the cheerios off the floor can wait a few minutes while my four-year-old shows me his new "ninja cape" or my six-year-old sings "Hakuna Matata" for the hundredth time or my three-year-old walks around in slippers 10 sizes too big for him with the silliest smile on his face or my two-year-old laughs uncontrollably as she pretends to be a monster and scares her big brother. Or even when my precious baby girl gives us a huge, adorable smile (usually right before a massive poop explosion). These moments aren't defined by how clean the kitchen was or how messy my hair looked that day; these moments are defined by the sheer beauty of God's perfect light, shining brightly through the eyes of a child.

Lord, help me to remember your love and beauty in every situation. No matter how many "burdens" lay in front of me, help me to see only You and to reflect only Your love to every person I meet. Help me to enjoy my everyday life. You've given me a great one.

“For the word of God is alive and active…” - Hebrews 4:12

Day 55: Halloween Eve

All dressed up!

My little bumblebee :)

Unfortunately, I cannot legally post any pictures of the kids. Hence, the two pictures above of just their backs. But, as you can see, we've been having lots of Halloween fun around here! We've got a muscleman, a superhero from the Fantastic Four, a ladybug (who doubles as a bumblebee), and a pirate! A volunteer group came to the neighborhood on Saturday and hosted a Halloween party for the kids. They had a blast getting all dressed up and collecting LOTS of candy in their new trick-or-treating bags (thanks mom and dad!). My parents sent each child a Halloween gift bag, complete with vampire teeth, candy, crayons, coloring books, and more. They are the best! The kids LOVED their bags and would not put them down all day. Today is Halloween Eve, so that means the big day is just 24 hours away and everyone is getting so excited. I remember being a kid and feeling like it took FOREVER until we got to go trick-or-treating. It was always such a fun part of my childhood and I hope our kids will remember and cherish their Halloween here at Casa :)

Other than that, everything is still going very well. We all fall in love with our children a little more each day. It's hard not to when they are just SO adorable! I really wish my family could meet them all! Now that the holidays are fast approaching, I'm feeling a little homesick knowing that I won't be home for Christmas (my favorite time of the year!). However, I know that this year will be extra special because I'll be spending it with these amazing kids. They deserve to have the best Christmas ever.

In other news, I'll be attending a Joyce Meyer conference next week! I'm really looking forward to it. My mom and I have wanted to see Joyce for awhile now, so this will be really great. I'm also very happy that I've been able to go to church regularly here. I was concerned at first that I wouldn't be able to make it there every week, but so far, it has worked out well. God provides everything we need. I have been realizing that a lot more lately and have found such comfort in that knowledge. Thank you Father, for always being there, loving us unconditionally. Thank you for bringing these little ones into my life. Give me the patience, strength, and grace to be a reflection of Your perfect light to these children at all times. Amen.

"The Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed." - 2 Timothy 4:17

Day 47: His Love

There is not much new to report on, only that with each passing day, my love for these children grows deeper and deeper. They are seriously the sweetest, most resilient kids I've ever known. They make me laugh and cry; they make me want to pull my hair out one minute, but then they melt my heart the next. I love them. God loves them. He is enough.

"Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God." - 2 Corinthians 3:5

Day 40: Forty Days of Casa

FORTY DAYS? Has it really been forty days? Feels like just yesterday I was in the airport with my mom, nervous and excited for my new Houston journey. As I sit here (relaxing during naptime!), I can't help but reflect on the past 40 days and acknowledge God's guidance and grace in my life. I know this is exactly where I'm supposed to be.

Before I had even heard about Casa, working my 9-to-5 back in Syracuse, I was praying for God to guide me toward my next step in life. I had no idea what that might entail or what He had in mind, but I knew I needed to trust and follow. So I did. I followed Him all the way to Houston and have never felt such peace about a decision.

Although I have only committed for one year here and I have no idea what my next chapter will be, I am certain of one thing: my future is in God's hands. God is already there. May He grant me the strength to follow wherever He leads.

On a different note, the kids are still doing great. Sometimes they'll get sad and ask about their mom or dad, which is always so hard to hear. I never know the right words to say. I just reassure them that we love them and are here for them. They are so strong! At such a young age, they have already experienced so much adversity. My only comfort is knowing that God is with them. I pray that He uses me to bring joy and peace to their lives.

"Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing! For the Lord has comforted his people, and will have compassion on his suffering ones." - Isaiah 49:13

Day 37: Houston Rockets

On Day 37, after spending the morning and afternoon with the kids, I went to the Houston Rockets pre-season NBA game with a couple other houseparents! We had box seats, which made us feel kind of important :) It was an awesome night! The Houston Rockets beat the New Orleans Hornets 95-75. Jeremy Lin also got a lot of playing time; it was pretty LINSANE to see him in person. Ha.ha.ha.

After the game, a group of us went downtown to a country western bar! Complete with country music and lots of line dancing, it was such a great night. We'll definitely be returning soon. I need to buy some cowboy boots ASAP!

"You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands."  - Isaiah 55:12

Day 36: Halloween Spirit

Our kids are getting very excited for Halloween! Everyday they ask: "Is it Halloween yet?" We've gotten lots of Halloween books and spooky music from the library. It's been so fun! We even had a day when it was "chilly" - by Houston standards. Fall is definitely in the air :) Nothing beats fall in the Northeast, but nothing is more fun than Halloween with lots of excited kids!

In addition to listening to "Monster Mash" and "Purple People Eater" more times than I can count, I've also decided to start the Paleo Diet. Basically, it involves eating like a caveman. It includes any food that can be hunted or gathered. Lots of lean meats, seafood, vegetables, fruit, and nuts. No breads, grains, legumes, dairy, or added sugar. I've been reading a lot about the Paleo lifestyle and I am so interested in learning all about it and starting this new "journey". We'll see how it goes! I'll give it 30 days to decide if it's the right plan for me. It makes sense though; it's the way humans are supposed to eat!

Because of this new Paleo plan, I've definitely been cooking a lot more and spending lots of time in the kitchen. This is definitely not something I'm used to, but it's been a lot of fun. I have to plan my cooking times around the kids though, obviously, so naptime and after bedtime are both good times to experiment :)

Our kids have been doing awesome. Looking back to when I first started, they have grown and developed so well. First grade and pre-school have been going great for our two school-aged boys and the younger ones are definitely progressing. I look forward to seeing them grow even more! It's unclear how long they will be with us, but no matter what, I pray that God enables them to develop and mature into faithful, hard-working adults. Their future is in His hands.

"I have told you these things so that you would find comfort in Me. In this world, you will suffer; but be courageous, for I have overcome the world!" - John 16:33

Day 29: A Week of Firsts

This has been one crazy week - and it's not even over yet! On Monday, two of our beautiful children were discharged. It was my first discharge experience here and it was definitely hard. It was wonderful to take care of them for the past couple weeks; I couldn't have asked for more adorable kids. I pray that God guides them and protects them throughout their lives. May they always know His love.

After that, we had just one night of only three kids. The following day, I had my first intake experience. We received two new children who are both cute as buttons; we are so lucky! They have adjusted very well to their new home.

In addition to all of these comings and goings, two of our kids had their first day of school! It has been so exciting to get their school supplies ready, hear about their days, and help them with homework. It brings back so many memories!

This week has also been pretty hectic with a multitude of appointments for the children. With new intakes, there are always lots of doctor visits and evaluations within the first week. Next week, I look forward to getting everything settled and enjoying our little family :) It's funny, I now understand how much work my mom had to do when we were young! There is always so much to be done: cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, doctors, schoolwork, appointments - the list goes on and on! My heart goes out to all single mothers. Motherhood is probably the hardest job in the world, but it is by far the most fulfilling.

Every night, after storytime but before tucking the children into bed, we always rock them and sing lullabies. This special time with each child is always my favorite part of the day. After a long day, it always brings me such peace to hold them and pray for them. I ask God to give them the strength to weather any storm, to hold them in His arms always.

"Seek the LORD and His strength; seek His face continually." - 1 Chronicles 16:11

Day 24: Trusting God

I received that lovely plaque in the mail yesterday from my mom. It's perfect. More and more each day, I learn to trust God with everything - and what a relief it is! He holds us all in the palm of His hands.

Everything has been going great here. The kids are doing wonderfully and we are all getting into the groove. I've learned that motherhood is hard work! It's not always easy, but the rewards far outweigh the work.

"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." - Psalm 20:7

Day 20: Busy Busy!

Today was filled with various appointments for the kids. In the morning, I made some yummy french toast; they ate it up so fast! Next, three of the boys had dentist appointments. Due to insurance problems, only one child was actually seen by the dentist. One screaming little boy later, we finished up and had a few different evaluations for them. Everything went relatively well! I am slowly learning the ropes with all the paperwork we have to do for the kids; I just hope I can remember everything. I think it'll just take some time to get used to it.

After resting up yesterday, I was re-energized for the craziness of 4 little boys and a baby girl. They really are so adorable and are doing so well, given their circumstances. Bedtime is a little bit of a challenge; it normally involves some crying, rocking, and numerous rounds of "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star". Their tight hugs and sweet "I love yous" make it all worthwhile :)

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love.” - 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Day 19: A Day Off

After doing the overnight shift with the baby last night, I had a much-needed day off today. I finished setting up my room, read the Bible, chatted with family, went to the gym, and just relaxed! It feels good to be able to recharge my batteries so I can be at my best when caring for the children. Those little ones really tire me out!

Today, I was also feeling quite homesick. Luckily, I was able to video chat with my parents back home. They always know the right words to say to give me strength and guidance in any situation. I am beyond blessed to have such a wonderful, loving family. Being here has made me appreciate that blessing more than ever before.

The rest of the week will be filled with playtime, snack time, bath time, and bedtime. Can't relax for too long! ;)

"Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you. For you, O LORD, have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before the LORD in the land of the living." - Psalm 116:7-9

Day 17 & 18: Kid Time!

The past two days have been filled with the energy of 4 little boys and a newborn baby girl! It's been pretty crazy around here, getting settled in and getting to know all of the children. They are all so adorable! I had never held a 4-day-old baby before; she is the prettiest girl. I'm actually holding her as I type this (doing the overnight shift)! The four little boys are rambunctious, funny, energetic and everything in between. I'm definitely exhausted, but excited to settle into this little family. My days are pretty much packed full of playtime, so I will try my hardest to keep this blog updated as often as possible.

I've been missing my family a lot more these past few days, so I pray that God gives me peace here in my new home. I want to give these children all the happiness they so deserve.

"The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." - Exodus 14:14

Day 16: Move-In Day

Phew! Today was a crazy, tiring, exciting day! We had to move everything into our new homes and then assist in the moving of one whole house to another. After transporting tons of toys, suitcases, beds, and cribs, I am so sore and exhausted. However, I am also SO happy to be all set up in my new room in my new house with all my kids and fellow houseparents! This year is going to be amazing! HERE. WE. GO.

My new room :)

Another shot of my new room. Love it!

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." - 2 Corinthians 5:17

Day 15: Graduation Day

It's finally here! Graduation Day! :) Today was wonderful. We finished up training in the afternoon and then celebrated our graduation with a little ceremony, complete with certificates, caps, and celebratory banana muffins! It felt good to complete the training and start to focus on our new homes and children.

Before graduation, we watched an HBO documentary called "The Broken Child". It was about the cycle of child abuse & neglect from generation to generation. Although it was quite depressing, it definitely puts things into perspective. The parents of these neglected children are oftentimes just neglected children themselves - forced to grow up without the love and guidance of a family. It's a vicious cycle that Casa works hard to break, one child at a time.

Tonight, we were able to spend the evening with our new kids. With four little boys and a baby girl, we definitely have a full house! All of the children are so adorable and very well-behaved; I can't wait to get to know all of them. We'll move in tomorrow night and officially begin our year as foster parents!! I pray that God grants us peace and strength to love these children with all we have.

"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people." - Ephesians 6:7

Day 14: Exploring Houston

Today, on our second to last day of training, we received our housing assignments! We were all so excited to see where we'd be placed and who we'd be working with. I am very happy with my housing placement and am looking forward to taking care of a 4 day old (!), three toddlers, and a 6 year old! I definitely have my hands full :)

After we received our housing information, a few of us drove around Houston, exploring the gorgeous Hermann Park. It was so fun! Houston seems like such a great city and I'm excited to see more of it this upcoming year. Below are some pics I took from the day...

Tomorrow is our "graduation" day! Only one more day of training and then we get to celebrate :) These past two weeks have flown by and I am so excited to see what God has in store for all of us.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11

Day 13: An Official Texan

On Day 13, I became an official resident of the state of Texas! We spent a few hours in the DMV, surrendered our old licenses (goodbye New York!) and received our new Texas driver's licenses. Crazy!

Afterward, we all came home to complete our required 6-hour defensive driving course. I am very glad that's over! We are now allowed to drive the vans :)

We have just two days of training left. I cannot believe how fast these two weeks have gone! On Thursday, we will graduate from houseparents-in-training and soon after, we will receive our housing assignment. I am nervous and so excited to officially start my year as a foster parent. I know my time here is going to fly by, so I'm trying to take everything in and enjoy each moment. 

"This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." - Psalm 118:24

Day 12: Car Seats

On my twelfth day here in Houston, we completed a lovely training session on installing car seats! After numerous successful installations, we are now all certified to properly tote our children around in the nice new vans :)

On a side-note, my mom sent me a package with a special edition of Time magazine about the life and works of Mother Teresa. What a wonderful read! Mother Teresa is one of my heroes. Everything about her life is such an inspiration to me. Her constant, immovable faith in God and His will for her life leaves me in awe. She never questioned where He was leading her; she followed faithfully like a true servant. Her life is a model to how we should all strive to live - humbly surrendering to the One who sent us.

Well, we have just a few more days of training until our big "graduation"! We're all very excited to find out where we'll be placed. Tomorrow, we'll be spending some time in the good ol' DMV to get our Texas driver's licenses. My New York license will have to be destroyed :( I'll be an official Texan!

"If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth." - Deuteronomy 28:1

Day 11: Shadowing

This morning, I went to church with several other houseparents and two children. We went to St. Michael's Catholic Church. It was a wonderful service - really packed! It always feels like home, being in church. I was so glad to meet other Catholics and join them for mass.

After church, I completed my second day of shadowing a current household. I was there from the afternoon until bedtime, so I got to see a lot of their routine. From lunchtime to story time, there's always lots of playing and laughing! It was great to be with the kids today. Their sweet innocent faces make all of this worthwhile. All of their energy has really tired me out though! I'll definitely sleep well tonight :)

Tomorrow begins our last week of training! I can't believe how fast time is flying!

"Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." - Psalm 34:14

Day 10: Astros vs. Phillies

The Houston Astros!

On Day 10 of my time here in Texas, a group of us went to the Houston Astros baseball game! It was my first time attending a professional baseball game and it was really fun! The Astros won against the Phillies, so everyone was very excited. Go team! :)

Astros vs. Phillies

Take me out to the ballgame...

Before the game, I shadowed current houseparents and their morning/afternoon routine. It was wonderful to spend the day with such adorable kids! After observing the routine, I have more confidence that I can complete all of my household duties and be a good houseparent. I really look forward to moving into a house and taking care of children. Just 5 more days of training! 

  

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." - Romans 8:28

Day 9: CPR Certified

Today, we received our CPR certification! After three hours of learning about CPR and perfecting our technique, we all became certified. Although I hope we never have to use it! Afterward, the housemates and I went to Free Birds, a burrito joint here in Houston. After a delicious veggie burrito bowl, we bonded over Remember the Titans. We all have to be up bright and early tomorrow to shadow current houseparents and observe their morning/afternoon routine. I'm looking forward to spending the day with the kids!

On another note, I received a package today from my mom. I miss my home and my family, but I have a peace that I've never quite felt before. I anticipated being incredibly homesick, however I am actually feeling so happy and content with where I am! I know that God has been answering my prayers for strength and guidance. How awesome it is to feel that love.

"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - Matthew 28:20

Day 8: Household Responsibilities

At our training sessions today, we went over our various responsibilities as houseparents. There is a lot of paperwork and documentation involved in our jobs. I hope I am able to learn quickly so that I fall easily into the routine of the house. I pray that God enables me to be the best houseparent I can be, to fulfill all of my duties and to be a blessing to everyone around me.

After the training ended at 5, a few housemates and I went to a cycling class at the gym. I was so happy to finally be able to get to the gym; I haven't been since I moved to Houston! The class was awesome, although pretty different than my spinning class back home. I hope to get to the gym regularly once I have a more predictable schedule.

Tomorrow is another day of training, followed by a weekend full of shadowing and mentoring with current houseparents. I look forward to learning as much as I can from them and spending more time with the kids! Our training ends one week from today, when all of us will finally be able to start our new roles as foster parents. May His peace be with us.

"Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles." - Isaiah 40:31

Day 7: Childhood

On day number seven of my time here in Houston, we had several training sessions and videos on child psychology and the child's brain. It was very enlightening and informative, especially since we will be dealing with some developmentally challenged children. The psychologist that came to speak with us said that our attention is the most powerful gift we can give these children. Forming strong, healthy attachments as a baby is essential to human growth and development. We learned about babies who were left alone with little to no human interaction in the first months of their lives; these babies either died or were unable to develop into healthy children. Although these stories are eye-opening, it is incredibly sad to hear about kids who have no hope in their lives.

After hearing these stories, I can't help but reflect on my own happy childhood. I knew nothing but love and was surrounded by only stable, caring adults who would move heaven and earth to make sure my needs were met. I was important; I was worthy. This self-worth that was instilled in me since birth has been carried through every aspect of my life. It has made me who I am today. Hearing about kids who have experienced so much abuse and neglect, I cannot imagine what that feels like, especially as a child. Parenting and raising children is the most important thing we do in this life and I am so grateful that God blessed me with incredible parents. I hope to extend that blessing, at least in a little way, to the kids I will be working with here in Houston. No child should be without love.

My amazing family!

 

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." - 3 John 1:4

Day 6: More Training (and KIDS!)

Training Folder
 

This morning was another training session for all of us houseparents-in-training. After some informative childcare lessons, we signed more paperwork and headed over to shadow a house and observe their routine. The best part about this was that we were finally able to meet and play with some of the kids! Wow, they were so adorable! It made me really excited to move into a house and start working with them after we finish training next week. Their sweet happy faces just lit up my day.
 

On the phone with my parents tonight, I was telling them how nice and welcoming every single person is here at Casa. It really amazes me that every new person I meet here is nicer than the last! It's definitely reassuring and comforting to me, being so far from home and family. I look forward to meeting more people tomorrow and completing another day of training. I am so thankful for how everything has worked out. 
 

"The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace." - Psalm 29:11

Day 5: Meeting the Founders

All the new houseparents-in-training!
 

Today was a busy day! In the morning, all of the new houseparents and I were taken to get fingerprinted and drug tested. Afterward, we went to the office to have lunch with the two founders of Casa de Esperanza! It was so amazing to hear their story and learn how they started this wonderful organization. Countless children have been saved throughout the past thirty years due to their humble and tireless efforts. It really made me realize that all big ideas start small. From a tiny house with a few kids to the beautiful neighborhood that Casa has today, it's incredible to see the magnitude of an organization that has grown from such humble beginnings. No matter what you're doing in life or how small it may seem, you never know where God might take you!

After meeting with the founders, some of the current houseparents came over to our house to share their experiences. Everyone who speaks to us about Casa has such a strong sense of community and respect for each other. The love of children is put above everything else. It was great to talk to them and learn more about what it means to be a houseparent at Casa de Esperanza.

Tonight, the roomies and I played a fun game of Cranium and caught up on some TV. Tomorrow is another busy day of training! We will be "shadowing" current houseparents, which hopefully means I'll get to meet some of the kids :) I am so grateful for this opportunity and pray that God guides me to be the best parent I can be.

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." - 1 Chronicles 16:34

Day 4: The First Day

House of Hope

So today was the first official day of my year here at Casa de Esperanza. After breakfast, my mom and I headed over to the house to meet the rest of my housemates and get settled in. It was so hard to say goodbye to her, but I know this is where I am supposed to be. I've been praying for strength and feel a wonderful peace about the year ahead. God is good! 
 

Welcome! 

So, after a sad goodbye to my mom, my fellow houseparents and I were able to hang out and get to know each other. Everyone is so nice and they all come from such diverse backgrounds; it's been wonderful meeting all of them. We had our first training session from 6-9pm. It was basically an overview of the organization and our responsibilities as houseparents. Tomorrow is another day of training, starting bright and early at 8:45am!

Hello Casa!

I'm really looking forward to completing these next two weeks of training and getting started with the kids! I hope I can be a blessing in their lives because I am positive they will be a blessing in mine.

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." - Proverbs 22:6

Day 3: Semi-Unpacked and the Houston Zoo

On Day 3 of my journey, my mom and I made it to Denny's for breakfast (we didn't miss the exit this time!) and then headed over to Casa de Esperanza to unpack a couple suitcases in the room I will be staying in for the next two weeks. I was able to meet two of my fellow houseparents-in-training and two of the current houseparents, all of whom were SO nice! We all chatted for a bit and shared our excitement for the upcoming year. I unpacked some of my clothes, then headed to the Houston Zoo with mom! Despite the extreme Texan heat, we had a blast touring the Zoo. After that, we left for an early dinner downtown at Ziggy's Bar & Grill. The food was amazing! Houston definitely has not let us down in the food department! After dinner, we went to mass at St. Vincent de Paul's Catholic Church. Hopefully I will be able to attend mass regularly during the next year! Next stop: Whole Foods. My first time at this store and I was pleasantly surprised! A glass of wine while I shop? Yes, please! :)

Below are some pictures from the day:

In front of our hotel, Summit Inn & Suites

 Texas!

Mom in my temporary house

  Mom in my temporary house

 In the kitchen

 In my room

The Casa neighborhood 

Welcome! 

Home :)

The neighborhood 

Casa de Esperanza

Casa de Esperanza

The Houston Zoo 

The Houston Zoo 

Chimp! 

 Chimp family :)

I'll call this one the "thinker" 

:) 

 Asian Elephant

<3

 Ziggy's Bar & Grill

Enjoying a nice glass of dark beer! 

First Whole Foods trip!

Tomorrow is my first day of training. I'm excited and nervous at the same time! I'll be sad to say goodbye to my mom, but I know that I have a great year ahead. It's all in God's hands!

"The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?" - Psalm 27:1