Orientation

Last night we had our first meeting. It was an orientation of the entire process. Lasting an hour, it was a smothering of information about the entire process, fees, and services provided. A little overwhelming to say the least, but also so perfect in every way. The meeting solidified the idea that we are exactly where we need to be and doing exactly as we are.

We were introduced to one of the two case workers for our agency and we love her. I think we were blessed in waiting until this time and this place because the people we are meeting along the way are just beyond amazing.

We no longer feel afraid so much as anxious. The paperwork that is needed to be completed in Phase I is currently sitting on my counter ready to be filled out. By state law, it is required that each of us complete 10 hours of adoption training. Classes are held each April and October and we are just in the nick of time. Once we complete our 20 hours together, we will be moving into the Home Study process.

The only downer of the entire process is the waiting period. Although it is impossible to dictate when a placement might take place because our particular agency has placed on the same day as approval and have several from 2007 still waiting, we have been told that the average wait is still at least a year. This is a hard fact to swallow as we've already been waiting five years and anything more just feels like forever. I keep reminding myself that the payoff will be wonderful. No matter the wait, the Lord will bless us with a child to love in one way or another.

We are so excited to be in Phase I and can't wait to continue progressing through this process. I'm amazed how much actually goes into an adoption and can say that we have many long nights ahead of us, but that it is completely right for us and we are feeling the blessings and miracles of this amazing process already!