Saying Goodbye

Sorry to leave everyone hanging, (if you are on facebook, you may have seen our decision). After meeting with the doctor and caseworker last Friday, we decided that it would be best if Talan goes to a nursing facility. That is what I had hoped to keep him from going to, but he just has too many needs for another family to take him. With all his special needs, and medical conditions, the doctor suggested that the medical facility would be a good place for him. It is in North Little Rock, and the case worker said it would be fine for us to visit anytime we want to. He will be going tomorrow. I think this is such an answer to prayers. Everyone has told me it is a miracle that he is going to be placed so quickly. I am glad b/c I have been teary most nights thinking about it, so I am ready to just get past this time.

I have had so many different emotions play out, and don't feel like rehashing them right now. It has been a relief to have different people reach out to me, and tell me I am doing the right thing. I have a friend I went to college with that used to work for DHS, and she said she had 3 children placed there, and that Arkansas Pediatric Facility, where he is going, has true angels working there. I have heard great things about it. One of his daycare caretakers used to work there, and had great things to say about it.

I was reassured yesterday, when his daycare nurse told me, "I have been thinking about you, and Talan, and I think you are making the best decision for him". What she said means a lot to me b/c she was involved everyday with his care. I have LOVED his daycare, couldn't have asked for better. Such kind, and sweet people.

Another blessing about all this, was when the social worker from Children's hospital called to talk to Talan's caseworker, she explained just how bad his needs are, and I think it was a lightbulb going off for her. She hasn't realized all along just how bad he was. The good thing about the timing, it happened the day she went to court, and she testified that all of his suffering now, is a result of his head injury. That, along with the parents still not giving a straight story, the judge ordered to terminate parental rights in December. WOW. That is really quick. That makes just 7 months from when he came into care, to when he is terminated.

The good news, this facility doesn't have to be permanent. My prayer is that he makes great progress, and that with the Heart Gallery and getting the word out, we can find him a great family that wants to adopt special needs. He is a precious, precious little boy, and I know there is a family out there waiting for him to be theirs.

These photos were taken last weekend when we went to Hot Springs just for a relaxing day. It was just what we needed. Even Talan seemed to enjoy it. I layed him on the blanket when we were having out picnic, and he was so content. It was a beautiful day, and the fresh air was good for all of us.