[Mothy]

My wife and I fostered a number of children for a period between our second and third child, all between newborn and 2 years old. Many were emergency placements after court orders prior to adoption.

The one thing that was clear to us was that any decisions have to be made on the basis of whats best for the child - not whats best for the 'family'. A child like this needs a stable, loving and long term relationship. Adoption certainly delivers this in the vast majority of cases. If within the extended family there is someone/a couple who can offer this, then that is a great bonus.

Joe Bob - No doubt the situation hurts like hell - I can only imagine what it would be like knowing that if circumstances were better for you, you would probably be able to step in. Wishing you and the Princess a good outcome.

Tim