Frankie in 1994 |
Today our sweet Frankie turns 27! That is amazing to me that she could
possibly be that old! She was three when we met her as a bright eyed darling in
our Sunday school class. At that time she had been placed in foster care with
another family.
Anyone who knows Frankie knows she is an amazing young lady! She has a very
tender heart and still looks at life with amazement through those lovely green
eyes! In 1990, Jon and I married and this sweet face would be the flower girl
in our wedding. At the moment Uncle David said, 'You may kiss the bride,' and
Mr. Jon kissed Ms. Lisa, Frankie put her hands on her hips and scowled in dis-approvement.
Even she knew you don't kiss in the church building!
The first year of marriage is always filled with changes.
For Jon and I it would be the news that Frankie's foster care status had
changed and they were now looking for permanent placement. Frankie was to
return to the state and a new home would be found for her. The thought of
Frankie leaving the church family that had wrapped their arms around her was
too much! Also knowing with all this sweet child had endured in her little
lifetime she would need God. Armed with those convictions, we applied to be
permanent guardian of Frankie, the following week she moved in with us. Married
less than six months and the parents to a now six year old. Sometimes I wonder,
who thought that was a good idea?! But, God knows best and it has been quite
the journey.
Frankie, Alicia & Jackie |
Frankie has three beautiful biological sisters and as the girls grew up they
kept in contact, had sleepovers, attended church camp together etc. Although even
by the time Frankie was three she had already been in nine foster care homes,
so the girls did not really spend a lot of time in the biological home together
it was still very important for them to keep contact. And for Jon and I it was
helpful to have friendships with parents facing the same issues that we faced.
God has placed many 'helpers' in our way as Frankie has grown up, for that
we are so blessed. Some days it is easy to get weighed down with the things
that Frankie is unable to accomplish, thru no fault of her own but the selfish
acts of adults. But most days when I look at Frankie this is the child I see,
eyes full of wonder, excitement and hope. I love our sweet Francis Marie, and
wish you the happiest birthday. Tomorrow I'll post pics of gifts and this
morning's fun!
No comments:
Post a Comment