Monday, September 29, 2008

So you think that your the only one?

So you think that your the only one who has adopted an older child domestically? No you are not alone. Knowing that you've given an older child a chance at life. Even though many states label older children as “special needs” does not mean the child has physical or mental problems. It could be the child has formed a special bond with the foster parents, is a child who is biracial, or has siblings from which they cannot be separated. These children work hard to please their caregivers. They need patience, unconditional love, and supervision. Many states subsidize adoptive parents of foster children and supply medical coverage for the children. They come to us in many different ways and we pray daily for guidance and understanding. With Gods help we can do this.Do the research and ask questions about the older child’s background. Always ask the agency the child’s name, sex, age, reason for placement and number of placements. Ask to talk with the caregivers, foster parents, or group home where the child resided. As with other child adoptions, know the child’s medical history, developmental level and whether the child is in therapy sessions. The agency will be able to disclose, if any, known or suspected dangerous activities the child has been involved in like gang affiliations, fire setting, lies, sexually acting out, or stealing. It would be important to know if the child has any unusual habits, likes, or dislikes. Working with a reputable agency will make sure of the child’s legal status and any religious concerns pertaining to the child. This column was started for the sake of knowledge and the many new and old parents who have adopted domestically through the Department of Social Services. To give support and someone to talk to when you need advice.
May God bless you in all that you do
Jeanne

2 comments:

Connie Peterson said...

Jeanne, I hope you will get this ... I don't have an email to send to. The triangle "thingie" you asked about is a triangle loom. There is a large one in the background and people were learning how to use the small ones on the table.

http://www.waynesthisandthat.com/triloom2.htm is a nice place to get an idea of triangle loom weaving.

Connie

Vintage Linen Treasures said...

Hi Jeanne, Thank you for leaving a comment on my blog. To answer your question,
Washing vintage linens really depends on their age and condition. I evaluate each item for age, strength, level of delicacy, overall condition, etc. before I do anything to it. I'm NOT an expert, but I'll tell you what has worked for me.

If the item is relatively new (40 year or newer) and there are no structural problems I’ll go ahead with the following:

If the item has yellowed with age and needs to be soaked, I use a mixture of equal parts Biz, oxy clean and Cascade automatic dish washer soap (powder) in a huge tub of hot water and let it soak for one to three days. I wash it in the washing machine using hot water with Tide and oxy clean or Biz on the gentle cycle - slow agitation, slow spin, rinse with Downey and tumble dry with Bounce. (Note: try not to use bleach as it keeps on working unless you neutralize it) I pull it out of the dryer while it's still hot and fold. I don't iron it until it's going to be used. Older items or items with special needs are hand washed with a drop or two of mild detergent (Woolite), rinse in plain cool water, and line dry. That's it.
For storage, DO NOT place them in plastic bags, boxes, or anything plastic as a gas chemical will occur that will cause yellowing (citric acid -Lemon juice- usually takes care of that, but why go through the bother?) Also, do not store linens that have been starched. It attracts bugs, causes yellowing and can even cause fiber breakage. Please remember that I am not an expert and am just passing along what I have learned. If you have a truly antique piece, I would consult a professional. Thank you for your question. I hope this helps. Patricia :o)