A few thoughts on Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Happiness

Every once in a while you read an article, or see a film, or get a glimpse of a photograph that speaks volumes and it inspires you to make a difference in the world.  At least, let's hope that happens...otherwise, why are we put on the earth?  Aren't we here to love?  Isn't it as simple as that?  People make things so complicated and muck up their priorities until one day they look in the mirror and wonder who they are and what it was all for.  I for one do not wish to live my life like that.  Even in the darkest of moments, I seek to find something to be grateful for.  Today, and every day, I am grateful for adoption.  And more specifically, International Adoption. As I sit here, waiting anxiously for our travel dates to bring our little tiger princess home, I am thankful.  I am grateful to be a part of the International Adoption Community on many levels; it is a beautiful life changing experience, a lesson in patience, a deeper understanding in global consciousness, and above all, the ultimate feeling of unconditional love.  We are truly grateful.

As most of you know by now, Eric and I are open books about our process to parenthood.  And why not?  We are not ashamed of anything.  We have gone through a lot to become parents and we are proud of each and every step along the way.  If it weren't for the trials and tribulations, we wouldn't be as strong and we most certainly wouldn't have our little tiger waiting on the other end of the tunnel for us to bring her home.  Something many of you may not know is this:  adoption never has been Plan B. We always knew we were going to adopt.  We just weren't exactly sure how (or when) it would all play out.  I tell people this because it's important to understand how much we truly value adoption, and how blessed we feel to be part of such a beautiful community.

I see photos of my friends who have been joined together through the power of adoption.  I look at their beautiful children, smiling and happy, and think, "Wow.  Thank goodness they are home." But what about the thousands of kids still stuck in orphanages who will not be able to experience the same basic human right to a family?  That saddens me deeply.  

Today I read the following article from an amazing organization called Love Without Boundaries. It inspired me to write this entry, to do my part in educating people, and to make one small step towards making a difference in the world. I encourage you to take a moment to do the same:  Why International Adoption Still Matters


I am not writing this to stand on a soapbox and tell everyone to adopt.  In fact, I don't think adoption is for everyone.  Not at all.  Adoption is a long, emotionally draining experience and, to be honest, many people just aren't cut out for it.  What I am saying is this:  please think before making a comment to an adoptee or an adoptive parent/sibling/family member.  Phrase your question wisely.  Most of us are glad to talk about adoption, and answer any questions you may have.  Don't be afraid to ask questions, just be aware of HOW you are asking them.  Unfortunately, those of us in the adoption community have experienced some hurtful and asinine comments before, which is why I feel the need to comment here in this space.  And if you do have even the slightest desire to investigate the adoption process....do.  Thousands of kids need homes.  Thousands.

So here we are:  waiting to officially join this incredible adoption community.  We should be receiving our travel dates any day now.  And that, my friends is cause for a huge celebration!

Namaste,
Crystal

Article 5 Day and other craziness

I think it's safe to say by now that we like to keep things interesting!  And not necessarily on purpose...

Our Article 5 is being picked up in China today.  That is the final piece of paperwork before we receive our travel approval (TA)!  We are hoping to receive travel dates in a couple weeks.  It's looking like we could be in China a month from now!  Our little tiger princess turned 15 months old this past Friday, March 1.  We cannot wait to hold her in our arms.  The waiting is difficult, but we are definitely keeping ourselves busy, so it makes the waiting less unbearable.

In December of last year, Eric, my mom and I did a lot of reflection, and after much deliberation, we have decided to relocate to Massachusetts.  We will go through our first post-placement social worker visit in MO, then make motions to move to MA.  While it is very bittersweet for all of us, we know in our hearts this is the best move for the family.  We are greatly looking forward to having our daughter grow up near all of her grandparents, and have the terrific support system in place.  Eric has some wonderful job opportunities in MA as well, so needless to say, the stars are aligning, and we are as well.

As if that's not enough on our plate, I have also decided to go back to school.  I am getting my masters degree in social work through a 2 year intensive online program.  My plan is to work in the adoption field upon graduation.

So lets see:  adopting a toddler, moving across the country, job transfer, and going to grad school simultaneously.  No problem, we got this.