Adopted my DS and DD (birth siblings) at age 5 and 3 almost 4 years ago. Both very challenging in completely opposite ways. Pushed me to the edge numerous times. Made me wonder if I was cut out to be a mum and I've spent most of it trying desperately to hold on to my patience, humour and sanity whilst dealing with behaviour management, learning therapeutic parenting, Post Adoption services, school exclusions, various referrals that never materialise.....
But this week, I've genuinely laughed with them both on more than one occasion. I've looked at them and felt a massive something that I hadn't before, we've rubbed along happily during half term with hardly any of the extreme sibling rivalry we normally do. I haven't been told how much they hate me because they aren't allowed extra screen time or that they want a new mummy who's better than me because they'll give them sweets whenever they want.
And I bloody love it! DS even helped me complete a job I was doing so I could finish quicker and join in playing with him. Is this what "normal" family life is like?!