In MAPP class, we heard discouraging tales of foster parents whose families and friends didn’t approve of their fostering. In contrast, our family and friends are finding creative and wonderful ways to support Blitzen and welcome her to the family.
Blitzen loves mail, and she rarely opens our mailbox without a happy surprise addressed to her. Recent treasures included multiple Thanksgiving cards, a statue of Winnie the Pooh from my father, passed down rain and snow gear and homemade hats from a cousin, a card and favorite art supplies from our four year-old niece, a jewelry-making kit from our friends, an introduction to a rarely-seen fairy from a friend in Minnesota and a photo-filled letter from our cousin’s dog in Pennsylvania. On the way are a package of hand-me-down rain and snow gear and We’re working on writing y’all back. The concept of penpals is thrilling to Blitzen, who hopes to correspond with humans, dogs and fairies alike.
The in-person love is rolling in as well. Blitzen was feted and gifted by aunts at Thanksgiving. A friend at my school gave her a delightful assortment of beads. A music teacher friend/backup provided child care and music lessons. Friends have met us in the park and we’ve had playdates with their dogs. Friends with two young children took a four-hour round-trip train journey to spend two hours playing with Blitzen. This weekend, my mother, a child development expert and grandma extraordinaire, flew in and is spending several days working/playing with Blitzen and us, helping us establish routines and sprinkling loving pixie dust.
Blitzen feels the love. Carrie and I do. Thanks, friends.
Reading your blog entried just makes my heart swell–with gratitude, some sadness, love, and, most of all, hope. Thank you.
I have also noticed that your mother has a large quantity of pixie dust. Glad that you guys know how loved you are!!
The village is thankful for you too, brother.