Have you ever stopped and thought about change? The actual definition of the word is "to make or become different." Well...to sum up that thought...The Watson's have had some BIG changes recently.
I will attempt to start at the beginning so that you will understand how quickly things happened...several weeks ago a family member physically assaulted one of her children. As a result of the incident, the local Police were called to a campground where the family of 5 was living in a dilapidated camper and in tents. The child, whom was assaulted was temporarily taken in by the children's grandmother. Because DCF (Department of Children and Families) was already involved with the children while they were in their mother's custody, they were called out to his new residence due to it being an ongoing investigation. The DCF investigator heard what she considered " a lot of concerning information", yet, DCF did not feel that the other three children were in imminent danger. Our family, however; disagreed. It was evident that there were honest living concerns with how these children were existing. So, three members of our family went to probate court and filed for the children to be removed by the state police through emergent temporary orders immediately. Myself, and two other family members, went before a judge and each of our individual requests were all granted.
SO, the Watson family is now; a family of SIX.
Based on the method of removal from the home, being that the court removed them as opposed to DCF, there are no funds available to help us care for them. "The littles" as I will refer to them for legal purposes (as I do not want to print their names) are great kids and are adjusting well. This has, very much, been a period of transition, especially to our daily routine as we acclimate to living together. Tucker and Spencer have been instrumental in helping the littles adjust to living within the Watson Home.
As most already know, I decided to leave my job earlier this summer, as a result of some ongoing health concerns with Tucker. Thankfully, Gary works two jobs to help provide for our family, but I fear that it may not be enough. The littles came into our home with little to no belongings. We have received a large amount of donations, in the way of clothing and toys, from close family and friends. Please understand that, due to the circumstances, very few people were aware that any of this was taking place. We felt that a close, quiet, transition was in the best interest of the children. These children have been in a very difficult situation, for a long time. Sadly, they were blissfully unaware, of how little they had, until they began receiving the donations. Something as basic as three square meals a day, with snacks whenever they want one, has been the biggest adjustment. They eat as though they have never eaten before. Which, with only one of working, has made the grocery bill substantially more than ever before. But, I want these children to know, that although they just ate dinner, they will never know the feeling of hunger again. Nor, will they ever have to worry about the most basic necessities, such as a warm bath and clean clothes.
But, as I said, with only one of us working, things financially are very tight. We have received help in the way of gift cards for groceries, some monetary donations, clothes, shoes, coats, toys and books (which is by far, their favorite of all). These gifts are a God send and are so desperately needed. We, as a family, want to give these children all that they deserve, which is hard without the potential of financial assistance from DCF, and only one of us working. Although, it is my intention to return to work, for the time being, it is important to be available for all four children, and especially to be with the little one who is not old enough for school just yet. These children have been through so much, and for the first time in their little lives, they have their own beds, their own things, and unlimited access to food and shelter. They have a home.
The kindness of those who have already reached out to us, has been the most humbling experience. The generosity of the people in our lives is unprecedented and will truly never be forgotten. We still have a very long road ahead of us, but in true Watson style, we will take each day as it comes and see it for what it truly is; a blessing.
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