This is what we know so far:
About these Children
These energetic sisters are best pals most of the time. They take their cues from each other and enjoy many of the same activities and foods. Marlena has a passionate nature that matches her beautiful red hair, Emily is the "chatterbox" of the family, and "Lizzy" is the socialite who loves people?young and old alike.
Marlana Age: 14
Marlana is an active girl who seems much younger than her 14 years. She likes to read (especially Harry Potter books), play with animals and go camping with her family. Marlena also enjoys watching Dragon Tales and Sponge Bob Squarepants on television. Her other activities include swimming, Barbies, jumping on the trampoline and soccer.
Because Marlana's social and emotional development is a couple of years behind, she will need parents who will provide a rich environment filled with opportunities to learn and grow in these areas. Continued support with managing attention and hyperactivity as well as post-traumatic stress will be so important to her future. Her energy and enthusiasm for having a good time are strengths that will help her through occasional moody, intractable moments when the day is not going well for her. An individual educational plan (IEP) is also helping her with educational, emotional and social goals.
Marlana would do well with an older sister who is patient and has the desire to be a female role model. With empathy, example, and some of the extra privileges of being a teenager, Marlana will eventually grasp young adulthood with both hands.
Emily Age: 9
Emily is described by her sister as a "chatterbox," a trait she hopes to enhance with a like-minded sister in her adoptive family. Whether she finds that kindred spirit in a new sibling or a friend, Emily would like to share her love of playing with Barbie dolls, watching videos and Power Puff Girls. Camping, swimming and being around animals are outdoor interests this sociable girl could definitely pursue with her friends or siblings if given the dependable environment and lots of opportunities for fun.
Emily needs parents who know how to respond to the anxiety and nightmares that are part of post-traumatic stress and depression. Within a loving and supportive family that won't waver in commitment and reassurance, she can begin to find the reassurance that will support therapeutic goals.
Elizabeth ("Lizzy") Age: 8
Lizzy is a charming and social child who interacts easily with adults and children. She enjoys swimming, camping and playing with Barbies. She plays with Kindergarten Babies and watches the Lion King movie when she's not following her sisters' lead.
Lizzy's food tastes are similar to her sisters', especially macaroni and cheese. She also likes to munch on raw carrots and enjoys them cooked as well.
Because she learns and takes her cues from her Marlena and Emily, Lizzy's adoptive parents can use that to point out positive as well as less-desirable outcomes; i.e. "When you or your sisters sulk, do you get what you want? When you use your words to tell me what you need, we can find out how you can get it." Parents who teach with humor and acceptance would be the most successful with Lizzy and her sisters.
Because the girls have been through recent losses, they need adoptive parents who understand what it will take to rebuild trust--folks who teach values through example and let them know in many ways they will always be there for them, even when they sulk or tantrum. Their excitement with new experiences and family activities will be the big reward for a family that has the activity level and patience these girls need.
We have requested more information on these three girls. I know it would be tough, and we are not yet set on adopting them. My wife and I may have them down for a short time to see if they would settle in, or if they pose a challenge above and beyond what my wife and I could handle.
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