Since starting this process, a year ago, I have learned a few things about myself and a lot about the adoption journey. I learned I have much more patience , because let’s face it, actively pursuing the dossier for this adoption took exactly a year to complete. I also learned that having control issues is the worst thing while on this journey. You not only relinquish control to an agency, a social worker, and the U.S. Immigration department but you are also at the mercy of the country you are adopting from.
As far as the process is concerned, the main thing I learned was that there are no rules, no timeframe and no how-to book. I have found that the only true wealth of information in a process like this is other families who have done it. There are forums and websites and blogs with invaluable experiences in all forms of adoption. I have found them all to be a great source of knowledge and support in every step of the way. Here are some of the ones I have found to be a wonderful help.
The Bump :Adoption community
Fertile thoughts :adoption forum
Adoption.com :great site for adoption journals.
We are officially one year into this process and it has been hard, confusing, scary and absolutely fantastic. I don’t know what 2015 will bring but let’s hope it brings chaos in the form of little beautiful Peruvian people. We are anxiously awaiting Peru child.