Why China? (Link 15)

Why China?? For quite a while now, Johnny has had this wonderful thread about why people decided to adopt from China. Several bloggers have written their story. Check them out; they are really interesting. Johnny asked me to participate, so here is my account as to why we decided to adopt from China:

My story does not begin with “I always knew I wanted to adopt”. Nor does it start with “I always knew I wanted children”. Not that I was against having kids, I just wasn't sure if they were a part of my destiny. When I married Matt, I didn't think we were going to have any children. This is Matt’s second marriage and he already had three children, so I thought he was done. Heck, I knew he was done, since he surgically made sure he wouldn't have any more kids. I was fine with that. Now, I have always liked kids and I enjoyed being around them. I would babysit my friend’s kids and swoon over them. Matt would see me and say things like: “If you want to have a child, we can go to a doctor to see if it is possible that we might get pregnant.” I always would answer that I enjoyed being around babies and kids, but that it was nice to give them back to their parents in the end. I think Matt was the one who first mentioned the fact that we could always adopt if I wanted a child. But still, I was fine with the way things were. But then something strange happened. I turned 30 and I started thinking about having a child. Hmmm…that biological clock does tick! It wasn't something that was a deep desire at the time, but I did start thinking about it.

That year, Matt’s sister and her husband announced that they were adopting a little girl from China. I was thrilled for them; we all were. When Keely came home, it was amazing how well she fit into our family. It was like she was always meant to be there. I just loved her to pieces and slowly I started to think that this was something that I might be interested in doing as well. I really don’t know who mentioned adopting a child first; I can’t remember if it was Matt or me. But we decided we wanted to adopt. I told Matt that I had been wanting a baby; I wanted to be a mother. So, we picked an adoption agency first. We didn't look far. We used the agency that Matt’s sister had used since she was happy with them. At the time I didn't know all the things I know now about adoption, agencies, paperwork, etc. As far as picking a country, that was easy as well. Since Keely was from China, we thought it would be nice if our daughter came from China as well. They would have that connection growing up; they would always have each other; they would be able to go to each other with fears or concerns. After Keely joined our family, we also learned a lot about Chinese culture and the need for families to adopt Chinese orphans. So that is how we decided to adopt from China. It just felt right, 100% right. Now I know that having kids was definitely in my destiny. They just came to me in a way that is not necessarily the “traditional way”. I think our girls came to us in the most special of ways. It’s mysterious how our girls are so perfect for us, just like Keely is perfect for my sister-in-law and her family and just like thousands of other kids who were adopted are perfect for their families. I feel privileged and very blessed to have been part of an adoption journey twice. To those of you who are waiting: I know this waiting is so hard. Just remember that right now you are already a part of a miracle – you are already in the middle of a magical path to your child and when your paths finally cross, it will be so much more wonderful than you could have ever imagined. You parents who have been there understand what I mean…

Comments

[Magi]

How bizarre. I remember commenting the other day when I read your post, but don't see it now. I guess it's off in cyberland somewhere.

I just wanted to say how I enjoyed reading what you wrote. I love hearing the stories of how people have ended up here. My sister and her husband also decided to adopt after we became LID. Their log in is about nine months after ours. One of the reasons they chose China is so that our children will always have that extra bond.

[Joannah]

I loved this post!

[Colleen]

Thank you so much for that post. Hannah sure will be a a miracle. One that is almost within reach...(and I say almost).

That post was awesome and inspiring. Thank you.

[jodie]

I agree. I sensed the magic as soon as I saw Julia's referral photo. I'm sure that feeling will quadruple once I actually hold her and get to know her!

Beautiful post, by the way! :)

[danielle]

I also loved reading your story! It's funny how certain aspects of our stories are similiar and different at the same time. Thank You for sharing :)

[tracy]

Thanks for sharing your story, I'm all full of tears. Our stories might be a little different, but our families are made up of one magical journey...no matter how you grow it.

Your words are a nice reminder in the midst of an agonizing wait where patience can run thin.

[Tammie]

Sandra,

This is such a great thread! I love your story.

[Ruby]

You took the words right out of my mouth, our kids are all miracles & how they all fit our families to a 'T' is just mind boggling, yet awe inspiring as well. Your story was a joy to read, thank you so much for sharing it. Maybe someday if I get 'tagged' (Ahem... Johnny!) I would love to share my 'why china?' as well. *grin*

Oh, and by the by, I ADORE your new photo icon for the blog, GORGEOUS PHOTO OF YOU THREE LADIES!

Take care & happy holidays!

-Amy & Ruby Cate

ps. always check a glue stick TWICE before using. LOL

[Connie]

Thanks for sharing that. I look forward to the day I will experience that joy firsthand!

[Mieneke]

How lovely that these kids, who were so obviously meant to be yours, found their way to you. I firmly believe that what is meant to be, will be. I love seeing it happen.

[Johnny]

Thanks S!