Andrew and Mommy

Andrew and Mommy

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Much ado about nothing...

I received an e-mail today from the first agency I started with. They asked me if I would be interested in a domestic adoption. Apparently, a lawyer representing a birth mother contacted that agency--the birth mother was specifically looking for either a same sex couple or a single mom for her baby. I was immediately excited, scared, interested in learning more. I responded and asked for more info--details about the birth parents, health of the pregnancy, costs associated, timeline, do I need to hire a lawyer, etc. At the same time, I was worried--I had no intentions of giving up my Ethiopian adoption process, and I wondered how a possible domestic adoption would affect it. Then I started thinking about the possibility of adopting 2 babies within a year--one domestic and one Ethiopia...and then my mind started really racing! I spent several hours really thinking things through, considering, weighing the pros and cons. When I got home, I called my parents to talk through the possibilities with them. Then, I checked my e-mail: a message from the agency saying they're sorry, but an adoptive family had already been found!! Much ado about nothing for me!! This little event represents exactly why domestic adoption can be so hard and was not something I had chosen to do! My feelings about the news that a family had already been found--slightly disappointed....but honestly, relieved! I'm so excited about my Ethiopian adoption and the baby I've been imagining that I don't want anything to get in the way!

Friday, June 11, 2010

Home study finalized!!

I just received word that both my home study and placing agency have approved my home study! That's great news because it means I can finally submit my I600A petition to bring a child into the US. Once this important step is approved, then my dossier will be complete!! One step closer!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Wonderful people

I love it when I'm reminded how great people can be.....as I have been going through the dossier process, I have had to ask people for things. That's not something I often do! I usually try to be the independent one who can do everything on my own. However, that's not possible in the dossier process. For example, I have been to the credit union to get document after document notarized. Now, my new friend, Carla, is someone I can call by name every time I enter the bank! I was amazed at how helpful everyone has been so far in the process. Today, for example, I was finally able to connect with my doctor about the health statement. She was having a hard time finding anyone at the clinic to notarize for her, so I contacted my neighbor (who I just found out was a notary) and asked her to help. She met me at my doctor's office today so we could get the letter done. I really appreciate my neighbor going out of her way, leaving work to meet me at my doctor's office! So many people....part of the process....I won't take it for granted. I will be sure to show my appreciation for everyone along the way--that means my family, my friends who have written letters and supported me, even the clerk at the local police department! At this point, the adoption process is really reminding me of the GOOD in people!