Children...

On July 2, 2008, a little boy came into the world. His name was Frankie, and there was no way anyone could predict how he would impact our family. We didn't know he existed, we didn't know his family, and we didn't even know to be looking for him. But a little over a year ago, Frankie and his little sister Jasmine joined the Barr family.

My sister and her husband began the process of trying to adopt about a year and a half ago. Once they got their foster license and were officially on the list, it was only a few months before they heard of a 2-year-old boy and his 6-month old sister who needed a home. They jumped at the chance to provide some much-needed love for these two cuties!

Unfortunately, after living with them for almost 2 months, an aunt came into the picture who was willing to take them in. The law states that any blood relatves who can provide for them, are willing to, and can pass a background check have legal custody, and there's no need for a foster family. So we said our goodbyes and shed a LOT of tears. It took quite a while for my sister and brother-in-law to recover (understandably!), but they have since been put back on the list and found a new love of their lives!

While I'm insanely grateful for my new nephew, Carson, Frankie and Jasmine will always hold a special place in our family's hearts. It may have been a short while, but they made a big impact on our lives. They represented hope for our little family, and while it was painful, I, for one, am so grateful to have had that short time with Frankie and Jammin'!