More Than a Dress

This is not simply a size 18-24 month dress with pink hearts. It stands for something awesome - the next chapter in our lives.

No, I'm not pregnant :)

Anyone who knows me knows I have a huge crazy family. Part of that is because my parents have fostered for many years and continue to do so. I absolutely love volunteering with foster kids and was excited to get my foster license someday.

Brian grew up with one sister who is only three years younger, so I figured we'd have kids then get our foster license later in life. Fostering and taking care of kids is natural to me, but I didn't want to throw my poor husband into that chaos until he was ready haha.

A few weeks ago, Brian told me he could see taking care of kids in our home. We have begun the process to become foster parents. I'm signed up for classes next month, and we're working to get our home more kid-friendly!

Now, I know you're thinking we must be crazy. Brian works full-time and come August I'll be back in school. Plus, our condo is not so big. 2 bedrooms, 900 square feet, two humans, and one canine.

I know sometimes it will be overwhelming. I know that I might not sleep as much if a baby is placed with us. I realize it might be inconvenient to find a babysitter or bring a toddler along to a double date.

Whenever I think too much about the stress or inconvenience, I am always reminded of this: these babies who will come into our home don't have stress-free lives either. It wasn't convenient for them to be yanked out of their houses from the only parent or parents they've known. They are scared, confused, and hurting. They have been abused or neglected and haven't had their needs met. These babies will be more overwhelmed than we will be.

When I compare my life to those of kids in foster care, I see how immensely blessed I am. Close family, amazing husband, and an incredible support system. I'm lucky to have my needs met financially and have a safe, comfortable home.

I think it's time I share all these blessings with some kiddies :)

So, back to the dress that was the inspiration for this post. This was the first thing I bought to fill the dresser we hope to someday have full of clothes for little ones. It's much more than a dress - it's a symbol for a new adventure :)