True story - A gay adoption

Friday 8:21 am

Well, it has been less than 24 hours since we found out that we would definitely be receiving two young children into our home to live with us.

For those who need to be brought up to date, Lee and I have wanted children for some time and in the Spring, started foster parenting classes. We knew it would be a long road, and thought that we would have our first child sometime before Christmas. We were very surprised that it happened this week, especially since we had not even gotten our state license (the agency had to do a rush on it, last minute).

So, when we received the call yesterday, I got so emotional that I started crying in the front yard. I pulled myself together and spent the rest of the day running around town getting the house prepared for our new arrivals. How, in a few hours, do you make a house ready for kids that you have never seen or met and who must be terrified at the changes taking place in their life????

Their names are Brandy and Michael. Brandy is 4 and a half years old. She is bright, very well spoken for her age, protective of her brother, loves to color, loves all things pink, likes her hair brushed, and loves costumed jewelry. Her little brother, Michael, is a little over 3 years old. He loves trucks, cars, playing ball, and is very attached to his sister. They both love to get hugs and kisses which Lee and I will be more than happy to provide.

So, last night, we got one more bed, pull-up diapers, all of the shampoos and lotions that little kids' skin needs, a teddy bear, wind up truck, and puppets for Michael and a stuffed Pink Pig, tiara with matching earrings, and art supplies for Brandy. We also made sure we had toys for bath time.

I ran around the house making colorful signs on the doors to help them get used to their surroundings, Lee made sure we have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (their favorite) and cookies to calm their fears. And I am going to do my best not to cry every time I think about how lucky Lee and I are to have been given this chance to help these two wonderful, loving, children.

We will keep you posted.

Friday 11:17pm

Brandy and Michael have been asleep for a couple of hours now. It was hard getting them to fall asleep tonight, but its understandable. What can I say? These kids are absolutely wonderful. I haven't been so exhausted in years, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. They took to Lee and myself immediately. We know this is the "honeymoon period". We are working to establish a routine and structure so that they know what to expect and are hopefully less likely to challenge us as much. Time will tell. Boy can they eat! We went through almost a whole loaf of bread, 1/2 jar of putter butter and jelly, 4 cookies, chicken, broccoli, tater tots, carrots, and ice cream. We were very lenient considering it was their first day and we want them to feel secure. They each came with a box full of clothes and toys, but most of their toys were broken (1 armed dolls, etc- think land of misfit toys) and their clothes are out of season or soiled. We will get them new things in time. Right now we are working to make them feel safe, secure, and loved, and boy are they loved! They also met the neighbors kids tonight, played in the swimming pool with them, and generally had a good time. It was a very good first day. Good nite.

David and Lee Neubecker