From Toddler Giggles to Teenage Smiles: Our Adoption Journey

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I still remember the day my then-two-year-old Alyssa drew a picture of our house. It made me realize how much this little girl had already brought to our lives. Without her giggles, nursery rhymes, and infectious joy, our home would be a very different place.

Adopting Alyssa was just the beginning of our journey to build a bigger, more loving family. Over the years, we’ve welcomed six more children into our home, each bringing their own unique spirit and energy. Our lives are full, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

A Different Kind of Full

Life with a big family is chaotic, but it’s a beautiful kind of chaos. The days of long baths and quiet afternoons with my Bible are few and far between. Now, my “me time” is often found in the early morning hours before the house wakes up. But even my writing time is infused with the joy of my children. I used to write in silence. Now, I write to the sound of laughter and the occasional knock at my door asking, “Mom, can I get you anything?”

Motherhood has taught me to be more present, more patient, and more creative. With each new addition, I’ve learned to let go of perfection and embrace the messiness of life. My children have taught me that love is not divided, but multiplied. The more we love, the more capacity we have to love.

From Little Girl to Teenager

Alyssa is now 14, and watching her grow into a young woman has been one of the greatest joys of my life. I’ve had the privilege of seeing the little girl who loved nursery rhymes and zoo trips blossom into a compassionate, thoughtful teenager. Her smile still lights up a room, and her laughter is contagious. Now, our conversations revolve around her passions, her dreams, and her desire to make a difference in the world.

Our Hearts Have Grown

Adoption has been a journey of growth, not just for our children, but for John and I as parents. With each new child, our hearts have expanded. We’ve learned to love in new ways, to understand different personalities, and to meet unique needs. We’ve learned that family is not just about biology, but about the bonds of love and commitment.

Waking Up to More

Adoption has a way of waking you up – to the needs of others, to the beauty of diversity, and to the wonder of how God crafts families. It’s a journey that requires sacrifice, patience, and faith. But it’s also a journey filled with joy, laughter, and love.

If you’re considering adoption, I encourage you to start asking questions to see if it’s right for your family. The journey won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. Every hug, every “I love you,” and every smile will remind you of the incredible blessing of adoption.

Questions to Ask Yourself

1. What motivates me to adopt?

Is it a sense of calling, a desire to provide a loving home, or something else? Understanding your motivations can help you prepare for the journey ahead.

2. What are my limits?

Be honest about your energy levels, your parenting style, and what you can realistically handle. This will help you determine the age range and needs level of the child who would be the best fit for your family.

3. How will I involve my other children?

If you already have kids, it’s important to prepare them for the adoption process. Ensure they understand what to expect and feel secure in your love.

4. What kind of support system do I have?

Build a community of people who understand the adoption journey. This could include other adoptive families, online support groups, and counseling services.

First Steps

• Research, research, research: Learn about the different types of adoption (domestic, international, foster care), the costs involved, and the legal process.
  
• Pray: Seek God’s guidance throughout the process. Pray for your future child, for your family, and for wisdom in the decisions ahead.
  
• Attend an adoption seminar: These can provide valuable information and connect you with other families who have walked the adoption journey.
  
• Start the paperwork: While it can be overwhelming, getting the paperwork started is a big step forward. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek help when needed.

Adoption is a journey, not a destination. It’s a path filled with challenges but also immense joy. If you’re considering adoption, I encourage you to look into it. The journey won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. Every hug, every “I love you,” and every smile will remind you of the incredible blessing of adoption.

Additional Resources:

Adoption Directory

Whether you are interested in learning more about adoption, are in the process, or have adopted children of your own, here is a directory for easy-access information and resources about adoption!

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