Back when my kids were growing up, I took in a lot of strays....stray kids, stray dogs, stray cats. A few lived with us (a few kids....LOTS of dogs and cats) but most of them I just fed when they were hungry, rescued them when they needed a ride or a loan. I spotted many a ten or twenty til payday. Sometimes I got it back, sometimes not.

Yesterday one of my stray kids ran into my youngest son. I had not seen him for about 15 years. He got my address and showed up on my doorstep, with flowers! He's married, with kids, and owns his own business. He told me that he has thought of me often and would never forget what I had done for him when he was a teen. He did not have a mom in his life and I was there for him, like a mom, he said. It made me feel great! Anything I invested in this kid, and a dozen others, I got back today - with interest.

hi carlene

what a nice story....i'm sure you impacted these kids in more ways then they can express with words.

i think back to teachers that impacted me....and wonder if they ever knew how much they did.

i am in the process of getting certified to foster/adopt children. i sometimes get scared thinking about it. after reading your message...i have to realize...it isnt always about me.

your message gives me courage....

Josie, that is sooooo great. I have one adopted child (3 more that I got the "regular" way). I am currently raising a grandchild. I had fertility problems for several years and thought I would never have children. I promised God, if he let me be a mom, I would never turn my back on a needy child. Now I am wondering if I am ever gonna be kid-free! LOL...

Carlene,

That is great...I bet it did "make your day"...what a great thing to do for those kids....Not everyone would take the time to help out a teenager that needs a shoulder to cry on....You must have a big heart....

Carlene ,

Something else you are doing is passing on helping your fellow man.

These stray humans will help someone elso too and on and on and on.

How does that saying go it takes a village to raise a child.

Good for you.

edie

I shared your story with my cousin's neighbor today. She has taken in a boy who was kicked out of his home in his senior year in high school.

He has graduated now.

He is her sons best friend.

edie