I don't feel quite ready to share this, but I also feel the need to document our journey, both for myself and for those who may also be going through this process or considering it.
Anthony and I have decided to become foster parents with the intent of eventually adopting. It's interesting because Anthony and I talked about our desires to adopt before we even got married. It just so happened that we conceived almost right away and had Landon a year after our wedding, and 19 months after that, Harper arrived. My heart was turned to adoption when Harper was about a year and half. So, it's been 3 years that I've had this weighing heavily on my heart and mind, and due to various circumstances and strong, unceasing feelings that I've had, we felt the need to start now.
It's been three weeks since we attended our first class. I am taking notes diligently, soaking up every bit of information I can, and applying what I'm learning in our family. Our teacher is a marriage and family therapist, and has been amazing. We are learning so much and have made positive changes in our home already.
We met with our case worker for the first time on Tuesday in our home. That made it seem so real! Like, we are seriously doing this! Now we have paperwork to tackle, fingerprints, physicals, more classes, and then our home study. This process could take 6 weeks and it could take 8 months.
We are well-aware that this is not going to be easy, but I feel a calmness and peace that I can't describe. I have prayed constantly for direction, and have felt Heavenly Father guiding me every step of the way. I know He has a plan. I'm not sure what it is, but I will continue to go forward with faith. It just so happens that the agency we decided to go with is just 2 miles from our home and is also faith based. We have already been given so much support.
We are asking family and friends to also be supportive. How can you support us? Understand that we are aware this will be hard. We understand there are many uncertainties, but we ask that you be positive. To quote Scott Simon, "There are times that the adoption process is exhausting and painful and makes you want to scream. But, I am told, so does childbirth".
We feel strongly that this will be worth whatever sacrifices or difficulties we might face. Our family has a lot of love to give. We are hoping to adopt, but, in the mean time, if we can bless the life of a child, even temporarily, our efforts will be worth it. Of course, our hearts will break if our first placement doesn't end up being permanent. Of course, we will get attached. But, isn't that what these kids need? Someone who is attached and loves them unconditionally?
We are always accepting good thoughts, positives vibes, and lots of prayers. We would love your support on this journey.
3 comments:
This is so wonderful! I am very excited for you.
It makes me smile to see your faith shine through in your posts. Your family is clearly blessed. I'll be praying for you guys that it goes well. :)
This is wonderful! I am sending positive vibes your way and hope that everything works out well as I'm sure it will with our heavenly father guiding you every step of the way. :)
Post a Comment