Girl, age 10, said she wishes every day was a holiday. When we asked, What do you mean? she said, Like, you know, Christmas one day, Valentine's the next day, Easter the very next day.

When we asked Girl, age 7, whether her eyes were blue or hazel, she said they were frazel (that might be hazel with no front teeth).

In Our Children's Words

Why the children like living at the Village

It's like we're free and away from things we don't want to be around.

If we were split up, we would be lonely.

It's not like other group homes, we get to live together here.

I can keep my sister calm when she is mad.

When I'm sad, there is someone to talk to.

Fifteen-year career plan

One of our little guys was explaining to Grandpa Hank his well-mapped out future plans after he leaves The Village. I'm going to be a doctor for my first five years, veterinarian for the next seven years and a policeman for three years. I guess when you are only nine years old, a fifteen-year career path qualifies as long term planning, said Grandpa Hank.

Let's get serious, Judy

Judy, our almost full-time house parent, was trying to get one of the little girls ready for bed. Looking up at Judy and digging in her heels, the child said, Now SERIOUSLY, Judy. I don't want to get ready for bed now.

It's all your fault, mom

One of our teenage girls was being scolded by a house parent for not getting her homework assignment done. She replied to her house parent indignantly, Well, it's your fault. You're always making me go to the dentist.