So in the world of foster care, one first gets licensed by the state. That license is what is called a "Provisional" license and is only good for 6 months. Prior to that 6 months being over, a home visit must occur and then a two year license is then applied for. Since I got my two year license already, every year the licensor needs to make a home visit to make sure that the home/family is in compliance and to see where they stand regarding continuing fostering, and I was due for my annual visit.
I now have my third licensor in 2 years. One got me licensed, one got me through my provisional license and perhaps now this one is here to stay for awhile. Saying I was a ball of nerves is an understatement. The first two licensors wasn't too challenging as I was new to fostering. If I was not compliant with something, they'd tell me, I'd fix it and no big deal. But I've had placements. If I were not compliant with something, and it being a new licensor I was worried.
But all went well. I was able to express strengths and weaknesses. I was able to elaborate on what I did well and what I felt I could improve upon.
The past year of fostering was filled with so many good things and so many challenging things. It was oh so hard but it was far more rewarding. It inspires me to press on. I look forward to the littles that I'll love on next.
Today I picked up some sheets and pillows for a twin bed. I need to get a frame and a mattress but I'll eventually have a twin bed in the nursery to do some respite care for a lovely family and their newest placement of a sweet 5 or 6 year old little miss.
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The past two days have been spent putting up my Christmas tree. Last year I put the tree up, put a gate around it and called it that. I never put any decorations on it. I had an 11 month old last year. This year I have my tree lit, decorated and no gate around it. It feels nice to not having to worry about a toddler getting into the tree or pulling things off it or even pulling it over!
Adjusting to no kidlets has been relatively easy, but I also miss the little noises and interruptions from them. I won't wish away this season of quiet though.
