Melanie

Melanie is a friend of Kaela's who lived with us for awhile during high school. She had to move when I just got too sick to handle 2 teenagers and an 8 year old at the same time. Sounds weak, I know, but this disease really breaks you down sometimes. Add to that, Kaela losing her freakin' mind, testing every boundry every second of the day...I had to save my child. A decision that I have questioned every single day since then. Melanie was a love, called us mom and dad and was pretty helpful, she just had some serious issues... most beyond her control. Her mom had some addiction issues and wasn't available, even when I said She had to move. It probably took 3-4 days to find someone to take her. I was heartbroken and distraught that I was not able to handle it. I cried uncontrollably. I can't help but think I just magnified the real issues.
Fast forward to today. She graduated (on time) from a continuation school, has worked and looked after her little brothers for awhile, and is now on her own again with roommates. And does not have any children. PRAISE GOD! She has always been a caretaker and her being pregnant is what I feared most in letting her go!
She has just moved back to to town and lives just a couple of blocks away. She came to visit me last Sunday. Stayed and visited for 3 or 4 hours. I was so happy to see her. And mostly happy because she does not hold it against me - her having to leave the house. I am immensely proud of her for holding it together and rising to the occasion. I made certain to tell her how proud I am and that I love her - just like one of my own girls...she is and always will be one of mine. And I will never be able to make it up to her for displacing her in high school, but I will not take any moment for granted now...she will know with no uncertainty that 'mom' thinks she is THEE BOMB! Just as much as Kae and Emi.
Welcome home, sweet Mel, welcome home!