(no subject)
How to get custody of your child back:
1. Stop fucking around. Stop drinking, smoking pot, and whatever else you're doing that is not compatible with parenting.
2. Show up. Be dependable. When there's a court date, be there early, with the paperwork. Pick up your kid on time. Take them back on time. Have your phone on, and answer it.
3. Document everything. Last time I went to court, I brought letters (signed, on letterhead) from my psychiatrist, therapist, parenting class teacher, and my employer. Having showed up to all of these appointments, for over a year, also.
4. Have a stable home. For me, not actually having had a home at all for a couple years there, this took the most doing. Once I found a place, paying the rent consistently and keeping it clean, keeping the fridge full.
5. Be employed. I'm still on disability for my, you know, grave emotional and mental disorders, but I'm working part-time at a florist. It's perfect. I made these:
6. Say "Your Honor" and "Yes, ma'am" a lot. Be humble. I missed a chunk of Clara's life for a reason. Thank everyone who helped me, because it was quite a few people and I couldn't have done it on my own. Especially my lawyer. Have a lawyer. Even broke, I applied for a free one and she was amazing.
7. Be a good parent. Don't let the stress get too bad, make sure everyone eats and sleeps well, and do the not fun things, like doctor visits and time-outs. Ask for help when needed. Find ways to have fun that are rated G.
Do the not fun things, like doctor visits and time-outs. Ask for help when needed.
I get to go to William's birthday parties, and we visit pretty often. He's 2 now, and solidly in the "No! Mine!" stage.
So things are much better this year. Happy Thanksgiving.