They're here, let the battle begin….
Following the plan set up by everyone else (social workers ours and theirs, school, and previous carer) we had a schedule to follow to meet the boys and then get them ready to move in.
We began with a lunch, with some crafting, one Sunday afternoon, followed by a walk around a local reservoir. I began how I intend to go on, strict rules and when LSR tried to run away I called him back and made him hold my hand while we chatted and walked. He wasn't happy but I had already stamped my authority. JJR was keen to show us how quick, strong, fast he was by running up and down "I am so fit"!
A few days later they had an overnight stay; their carer dropped them off. She has given me a schedule that she follows that she says works for both boys. I will use it initially but will quickly make my own schedule. She has very strong opinions of the boys ( both positive and negative) but like when I get a new class, I will take everything with a pinch of salt. She and her husband have worked hard to help the boys to settles into a routine but from what I can already see there was a definite lack of nurture which all children need. After they were dropped off we went to the local park and had tea some pasta bake, "this is very crunchy"! came the comment from LSR, I wonder if we will get on.
Move In Day
After the chaos of arrival and sorting out all of their bits and pieces we decided to have a bit of time together to build a bond, playing Mario Kart, we couldn’t find the controllers which made LSR quite angry, this is going to be a long day. He is quickly trying to make his mark and push boundaries but I am not here to be used a punching bag, so we had a very quick chat about rules and expectations. Our SW has said we don't need too many rules but I disagree, and have told her this. I would rather start with too many rules that can be eased/removed over time, rather than being too lenient initially, which will cause no end of issues. Our rules are more about being decent people rather than controlling the children, every behaviour or action both positive or negative will have a consequence it may be that they gain knowledge/skills/treats/time in or lose time/priviledges/relationships but we will hold them accountable for their actions. This isn't going to be easy but we will see how we do.
After weeks of waiting, being tossed around (emotionally) by social workers, being considered for a 4 year old and a 1 year old sibling group, a 1/3/7 sibling group, we have been matched. The duvet needs to be washed and ironed, the frames need some artwork, we might even paint the wall but from next week this bed and it’s matching neighbour will be home to two boys 8 & 9. 
