Challenges

It seems right now every one I talk to who has adopted an African Angel is questioning that whole "angel" piece.

On Tuesday Akins threw a fit at school so bad that he was kicking things, hitting things and the teachers said they were scared of him. All this because he did not want to go in the "little kids room". Akins is the youngest of a group of 3-4 year olds in his group so when someone has to move to another class it is usually him and they move him to a 2-3 year old group. He hates change and this typically is the thing that sets him off the most. If he had his way he would never leave the house and neither would we. I can only think that it is because this is the only place he truly feels safe.

For this type of behavior I take away things that Akins loves. I am the biggest take away - that means special time with Mommy-O and for us that is story time. So, on Tuesday no story. This leads to my punishment which is a further meltdown but usually after such an episode we can cruise pretty well for a week or so.

Many of my MUAA friends and families have similar struggles we all have our challenges and it seems like of late we are all especially struggling and even questioning our abilities to parent these children. Not sure why everyone has hit the wall right now as we are at different points in time home so I can't attribute it to any one thing. If it has anything to do with full moons I am ready for it to end!

I know Akins was brought to me a woman who NEVER WANTED CHILDREN for a very good reason I just hope I do not screw him up further out of my frustration with some of the things that go on. I try to offer extreme patience but at times it overwhelms me. Lorea has really hit the wall and she struggles daily to remain patient. People try to give advice or say "oh that is normal", but they also do not live it, see it or have to cope through any of it.

In general I am lucky. A couple of the other kids are have a much more difficult time adjusting, the outbursts are often and big and the parents are struggling. For this I worry for them and feel guilty when I feel grateful for the child I have.

Internet Down!

Sorry for the long pause. Our internet service seems to get blown out every time the wind blows or it rains. In this case we have been down since last Thursday. In any event we are up again and I have much to post. Some photos a few stories. As a teaser because I have little time right now let me just say Akins has a new word...Awesome". Weird!