support networks

We had our second homestudy visit last week, the themes of which were support networks and health and safety.

The health and safety check was not as bad as feared, with the vagaries of our old house taken into consideration. We have a checklist which needs completing by approval, so ages to get things done. Many of them will be dependent on the age of the child: socket covers, door and drawer locks won't be needed for an older child for example. But we do have to get a fire extinguisher and blanket, our smoke alarms work but we don't know how to test them so we're going to replace them. And we will need to show our insurance and MOT certs for the car to prove it is roadworthy. The one thing I need to think about is my kitchen. I am a keen cook and have my knives in a block next to the cooker where I can reach them . I am a bit precious about keeping them sharp and for that reason don't relish them being chucked in a drawer. Having raised one child with no incident this is one of those 'common sense' areas for me, but of course if the SW wants it, I am sure I will comply!

Bonnie questioned us in detail about our support networks and especially the 'grandparent' generation. We are lucky to have our parents fit and healthy with mine living nearby, but my dad especially is very set in his ways and perhaps is going to take some time to understand the needs of an adopted child. Let's just say his bark is worse than his bite, but he can bark very loudly at times!!

Had a brilliant day out at NFL London yesterday and we formed part of the USA flag during the national anthems. Game went as expected with the patriots outplaying the bucs. Also had a good result from the Packers again this weekend.