Three in Tennessee testing

Orientation was yesterday. We shared the day with six other adoptive families. In addition to checking another item off our list, it was very informative and emotional.

The day began with a panel of speakers: two birth mothers, two adoptive mothers, an adoptive grandmother, and an adopted person. Their honesty and unique insight was tremendous. As each one shared their story, we were able to gain perspective from all angles of the adoption process. One adoptive mom shared that the birth mother who gave birth to their son was seven months pregnant when they were at orientation. They didn't know it, but they were just in time for the son God had planned for their family. Yes, there may have been a little sniffling, but no more than a normal episode of Extreme Makeover Home Edition at our house.

Teri and I were able to have lunch with Henry & Wendy, a wonderful adoptive couple we've met along the way. We really enjoyed getting to know them a little better. Thanks for the tea!

After lunch, the Bethany staff shared more details of the process, facilitated discussion and answered questions for us. We met Mark, the new Social Worker who will be handling our case. He is a music minister in the area, so we talked for a moment about our common interest.

We are DONE with our paperwork! Now all that remains is our home study, interviews and the aesthetics of our profile for presentation to birth parents. Feel free to share our story with as many people as you can once we are approved and officially "waiting." We never know how God will orchestrate this adoption or who He will connect to make it happen.

Bring on the home study, Mark! We're ready.