On the Eve of Halloween

The call came at 9 at night, and so it is that at midnight on Halloween Eve with a full moon shining, M came to join us. The call came and described how they needed a place for a 7 year old boy to stay until the home where his 13 year old sister was going had an opening for him to stay there, too.  Heartbreaking to think of them being separated but we were already stretching our rules with a 7 year old boy, turning 8 very soon, since we state we want kids younger than Camille.  Since I knew it was for a short time, how short I do not know, I knew it would be fine.  It was an emotional start for me with processing how I couldn't just say, let them both stay.  Imagine, looking into the eyes of a 13 year old girl and telling her how you will keep her brother safe until he can come be with her.  It challenged my beliefs but when all was said and done I knew we had made the right decision.  The family they will be going to is looking to adopt a sibling group.  It is unfortunate that M couldn't go there from the get go, but it is fortunate for this time we are having to love on him.  He is good and kind.  Funny and athletic.  School will be a struggle but he can't wait to go.  He is mannerly and corrected Camille a few times yesterday.  We went shopping and got some clothes and the scary mask he needed to complete his grim reaper costume.  He is adjusting so well and fits in fine.  Big kids haven't had much time with him since we have been busy with Halloween festivities.  His favorite thing to do is bounce the basketball.  Every time Todd walks into the house, he encourages him to keep counting and see how many time he can dribble the ball.  Then Todd leaves the house and I get the pleasure of listening to the ball bounce.  M says that he is bored.  I say that he needs to be in school.  He agrees.  Hopefully all the paperwork will be squared away and he can start on Monday.
It has been a unique situation to have an older child in the home.  He has been awestruck as he looked around the house and amazed at the amount of food in our refrigerator.  He told me that he didn't have milk in his because they are broke. We are humbled by his response and reminded of how much we have to be grateful for and so fortunate to share it with him.  Welcome to the stan clan M!!