Someone suggested that I blog about our adoption experience. I feel like I have to back up and introduce our family and then I can begin sharing about our adoption experience.
Presently, there are 4 of us, my husband, Rodger; our son, Kevin; our daughter, Krista; and myself, Reg (Regina). Kevin and Krista are in their early 20s. Pregnancy was difficult as I was on bedrest for the final 3 months. We were thankful that we had 2 healthy children and I wasn't sure I wanted to go through another pregnancy...
Fast forward to February 2015.
On the 8th, at church, we heard MJ's presentation about her work with orphans in Ukraine. Rodger and I felt called to pursue international adoption of teenage siblings. When we came home and made this suggestion to Kevin and Krista they were both immediately in favour. Wow, God was making sure we didn't miss his command.
We spent the next few months attending an all-day international adoption educational seminar, getting the required checks and being fingerprinted, participating in a home study, getting medical checks, employment letters, real estate letter, etc. The requirements for these were very specific so it was cause for celebration when one of these was approved after the 5th attempt!
We started this journey with the hopes that Rodger and I could go to Ukraine in July/August when I'm off as this would cause the least disruption to us, personally and to the school. Apparently God had different plans because we haven't left yet.
Then there were the practical things that had to get done such as cleaning out the basement so another bedroom could be constructed. One way to force yourself to go through stuff and do some major weeding! In the past few weeks we've had to buy items such as mattresses, bedding, more drinking glasses, curtains, etc. It's been exciting getting the rooms ready for our "new" kids.
We were amazed at all the applications we've had to complete and frustrated by the slow pace of approval. We were forced to wait for a few months and discovered that we are not very patient. All at once there was movement on Aug. 17 when the final document arrived in the mail! This was delivered to the adoption agency and then sent on to the Ukrainian Embassy in Ottawa.
A highlight during this process has been the support that we have received from family, friends, and colleagues. Our church and school community have been amazing. In April, 2 Calvin Christian Schools staff members organized a Quiz Master fundraising evening to help us with adoption expenses. Another colleague organized a Sobey's gift card fundraiser. Many people offer emotional and financial support.
These are a few of my thoughts. If I would have started blogging at the beginning of this journey there would have been much more. We are eagerly waiting to hear that our paperwork is being sent to Ukraine. On Sept. 19th the deacons from our church will be hosting another fundraiser, a pig roast. Should be delicious! As I've said before, people are very supportive.
