Project 365, Week 44

Busy week with our move deadline getting closer, soccer games and work. It was also decided mid-week that Dakota would be leaving and, even though its the right thing, we all struggled seeing him leave. Easy, safe, convenient, comfortable...all not reasons we do foster care.

October 25

THE foggiest game!! From the bleachers it was impossible to see the team benches across the field so we could hear the coaches voices but couldn't see them. Funny!

These twin boys were so sweet and kind to Dakota.

October 26

Made me smile to come upstairs and hear Shaun and Amanda having a conversation. He's a very intentional dad.

October 27

Sweet boys.

Our contractor also happens to be an Instragram influencer with over 100K followers and because of this he knows many people in the tool industry. Through his connections and knowing Aiden had done a couple brake jobs on our vehicles, he had a tool box sent...primarily DeWalt's new impact wrench that makes the lug nuts easy to get on and off and tons of other cool tools thrown in. Aiden was so excited and pleased. He's going to save himself tons of money over the years knowing that skill.

October 28

Jason finished the sign post, now we just wait for the sign to arrive. And wait. And wait.

This night was difficult because it was our last with Dakota before he went back to live with his mom full time. Its layered and complicated and its someone else's story. 

I've learned SO much being on the front lines of foster care for more than a decade. One thing I know now is that, if at all possible, kids need to be with their parents. He is not being abused and his mom is trying her best and as much as Dakota loves us, his heart will always first belong to his mom.

October 29

Last morning drive to school. We sang Veggie Tales silly songs, trying not to be sad. We talked about the plan for the day and we prayed. First Dakota, then me. In his prayers he almost always includes, "God, thank you for Home Depot". :)

He ran into school, proudly waving the cards we made for his teachers, attempting to teach him how to say goodbye.

October 30

Knowing it was the last Saturday before the office move, the kids put in a good effort at the building, trying to get projects done. Amanda also helped me shop for furniture at her favorite store. :)

 October 31

Our church tried something new this year. Instead of our usual Trunk-or-Treat that draws well over a thousand people, they opted to host a Harvest Festival at our new campus. As a TBQ group we volunteered and I was so proud of the kids for giving their time and being a huge help and with a great attitude. Avery ran a carnival game and was part of the music team, Amanda gave dozens of pony rides, engaging with the kids and making them smile and Aiden was on trash duty.

The campus is up on a hill in an open space and we were treated to a 360 show at sunset that lasted over an hour. It was staggeringly beautiful...such a gift!

(photo above taken by someone else). We invited Izaya to join us since he lives five minutes from that campus. It was so great to get some time with him. He has hopes and dreams and plans. He's a hard worker and has a huge heart. And he's as funny as ever. We went home with rotting teeth and full hearts.