How do I handle my 10 year cousin that I took in?

Actually today is her birthday, she's turning 11. Her mother is my younger Aunt. I am actually old enough to be her grandmother.

I had heard that she had been taken away by DHS because her mother is on drugs, father is too. They never married but neither of them are any good. So until about 1 1/2 to 2 years ago, this child (Sarah) had a really hard life. Not many possessions, sometimes no food or place to sleep. Her and her mom basically stayed with whatever man her mother could find that would take care of them.

So she was placed in a group home, then her dad's sister took her for 6 months and decided she couldn't keep her. When I said I could take her, she had to go to a foster home waiting to move in with me. I don't know what happened with the Aunt and the foster home parents. I think they spoiled her and had plenty of money to do so, but I don't. I know she's only a child and I'm an adult but I'm single. I lost my job because I called in sick with her one day.

She acts like she is owed something by everyone. I'm struggling with no job and living on unemployment. Some of my family helps me, but I get no help from any government agencies. I go overboard for her to make her happy and please her and it infuriates me that she doesn't thank me or appreciate it. She complains about everything I do for her. I've spent a lot of money on her birthday party for this evening and she has already complained about how the decorations have been put up. She wants her gift NOW. I do discipline her, but what is going on? I don't know how much more I can take of this. Almost every day is a battle about something, if I let it be. At the grocery store, she expects "namebrand" everything and the most expensive of everything.

People say she's testing me, but will it ever stop?? What should I do?

First off, she has been passed around and damaged. She is going to need a firm but loving hand and you are going to have to commit to her or let go before long. These kids need extra help and patience. I commend you for taking her on. You can get assistance to help offset the cost of raising her from welfare and other agencies until you are employed again. I was a Foster parent to sexually molested and broken kids, believe me, I know what I'm talking about. You need to sit down with her and let her know you really care for her but you are not going to be disrespected. Set the bar and stick to it. I hope you can help her. Other wise, she will be kicked around a loveless system until she is 18 or in prison. Bless your heart.

Try to get a job as soon as possible so you will have money to provide and just give her all the love and care she needs as it sounds like she has had a very bad couple of years.
Tell her that she needs to understand she cant expect the best of everything as you have to provide for her and you

That's terrible you got fired from staying home when she was sick! I hope you can find a job soon!
Do you belong to a church? Ask for help.

Cancel the party and take her with you to return the gift for her, she will learn soon enough