Someone posted this blog entry on Facebook today and I loved it. Like, really loved it. I try hard to find the right balance on our blog in talking about the blessings and trials of adoption. If I err, I likely err on the side of showing the beautiful aspect, because I feel like if that's what I focus on, that is what I will internalize, and honestly, we are currently in a very good place. More importantly, as I've said many times, our children read our blog and we are committed to showing them the respect of not writing in depth about trials we go through that concern them. However, for those of you considering adoption, I think it is important to know that saying it is not always an easy road is an understatement. As the blog entry said, we would do it over and over and over again. (Ha, I laughed out loud as I wrote that because I realized we HAVE done it over and over and over again!) But that doesn't mean it has been or is easy, even if we make it appear as if it is. And it might help others understand why we, like Jen, are not always the best at answering emails, following through on things, cultivating relationships outside our family, etc… We are getting better, yes-- but things still fall through the cracks. A lot. Especially with me!! So if you have ever sent an email or message that has gone unanswered, please try again. (: Know that despite the outward smiles and cheerful faces that we try so hard to maintain, just meeting the basic needs of the children is often ALL we can handle. (:
Christianne
No worries, you guys have had your plates full. Tell Jeremy we want an update on Cali as it is coming upon almost one year with you guys.
ReplyDeleteJen's blog post was fantastic! I'm glad you shared it with us all. There is a time and season for all things and your season right now is raising those amazing children, so don't feel guilty about the rest!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the link- great perspective! And I love how she related it to everything else, too, not just adoption. This book http://www.amazon.com/Instant-Mom-Nia-Vardalos/dp/0062231839 really opened my eyes to what it can be like after adoption, though she adopted from the foster care system. I, too, can barely keep up with anything except parenting my children, even though I only have four of them and they have no special needs, so don't feel bad. :)
ReplyDeleteYes, the way she related it to everything else was actually one of my favorite parts! I should add that to my original post!! Thanks for your encouragement, and if it makes YOU feel any better, I could barely keep up with ONE! Parenthood is crazy no matter the number!
DeleteOh, and I'm logged in as Jeremy, but this is Christianne. (:
DeleteI was thinking about it in terms of being a missionary as well, which is also after the airport- once you fly somewhere new and all the busyness associated with that but then you're out there hitting the streets day after day. It's a lot like parenting.
DeleteChristi, I feel so grateful to call you my friend. Love you.
ReplyDeleteI'm a BIG Jen Hatmaker fan. I'd never read any of her posts concerning adoption so this was very poignant. I can't imagine her reaction to meet you and your soon to be SEVEN adopted children. Would love to be there for that meeting.
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