Jennifer and “Indo” soon will be Mom and daughter
Indonesia has lived with her aunt, Jennifer Stone, for almost four years. When Indonesia’s mother could no longer care for her, Jennifer welcomed the girl into her home.
At one point, Indonesia was placed elsewhere. And she asked to go back. Now she is staying for good.
Indonesia – her aunt calls her Indo – will be officially adopted Friday as part of Hamilton County’s annual National Adoption Day ceremonies.
“I told her that with me, her only job is school,” Stone said. “I’ll take care of the rest. My focus is on her.”
Since living with Stone, Indonesia has pulled her grades up, gained friends and joined a dance team. She’s thinking about joining the track team next spring.
“I’m very proud of her,” said Stone, who is looking forward to emphasizing what it means to grow up and become a strong woman. “We are talking about being grateful, about not being self-centered.”
The adoption continues Stone’s family history of caring for each other’s kids. Stone was raised by her grandparents.