How were you introduced to adoption?
One of Brent’s younger cousins was adopted, so adoption was always part of his life and a way to build a family.
How did you know adoption was for you?
We always knew we would adopt a child, but we decided to start with adoption to grow our family. Now, we know it’s the only way for us!
Tell me about your adoption journey.
We were prepared a very long wait, but we were selected within a few months. We didn’t have a lot of stuff ready to go for a nursery, but we loved learning the ropes as parents quickly and being surrounded by our friends and family to help us along in those first few months. We hope to repay the favor someday!
How has adoption changed you?
Adoption made us parents. It opened us up to new extended family and a new community of families who have been through this process. It made us more flexible and adaptable to change.
What is the most rewarding aspect of adoption?
Being an open book for people interested in adoption, or even intrigued about adoption and never knew who to talk to. We like to be open about our experience with people to ensure adoption is always a positive word and dispel any negative connotation, because adoption is beautiful.
What do you wish people knew about adoption?
In the beginning, you may think you want a more closed adoption, but after you go through the process you will likely change and want more contact with your child’s birthparents and be even more open. It’s a beautiful process.
What are some of the greatest resources that you have used in the adoption process?
People. Find a group of adoptive families and ask advice. Find a good agency that you trust and know will provide great services to the expected or birthparents.