In our first class, we did a few group building exercises to help everyone get comfortable with each other. We talked about some of the different situations where children have needed to be adopted or fostered and what feelings they might have or behaviors they might show. We learned how to recognize some of our strengths and needs when it comes to parenting a child. We were given some handouts that described in detail what to expect in the upcoming classes. We are looking forward to our next class and we'll keep everyone posted as we continue. We love you all and thanks for the words of encouragement and prayers.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Our First Class
We attended our first adoption class Tuesday night. Our anticipation/nervousness was growing as we entered the building because we honestly had no idea what we were about to experience. Five minutes into the class we realized that we were surrounded by 10 people just like us. It is a class set up for people wanting to adopt, as well as, fostering children and teens. Some of the stories of how everyone arrived in the class were similar to the path we have been down. But, some of the couples there were just genuinely wonderful people wanting to help a child in need.
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Valerie & Gary
ReplyDeleteI couldn’t be more proud of you. I am so excited about your decision to adopt a child and I’ve been thinking and praying about your journey. As I contemplated your path to adopting a child, I thought about your journey being like most (if not all) in that it is going to be made up of a series of steps – some big, some small – but all important. As your blog shows, you have taken the initial steps to begin your journey.
Step 1 – The Decision to Adopt a Child – WOW! What a huge step that one was. But what a blessing it is to have made the decision and felt the peace in knowing that with God’s help, you have made the right choice.
Step 2 – The Choice of the Adoption Agency – Another big step. I believe that God led you to the particular agency you have chosen. And I believe that God has guided the agency to accept you as perspective adoptive parents.
Step 3 – Taking the Ten Adoption Classes through the Agency – You’ve had your first class and you’ve already gained valuable knowledge that will help you throughout not only the adoption journey, but throughout life as you love and teach your child.
There will be many more steps and many more journeys you will take on life’s path. One thing I want you to know, you will not be alone. There will always be family and friends to travel with you. We will surround you with love and support. Some of us will be beside you to offer a supporting arm should the road be rocky and your feet stumble. Others will be in front of you as they may have previously traveled the path and know the way. And some will be behind you to catch you should you fall backward and need help. We will be there every step of the way because we love you and want you to have the child you want and deserve. But, more important than the support of your family and friends, you will have the love, guidance and blessings of our Heavenly Father. I believe God has led you to the path of adoption and that you are following His plan. God’s loving arms will surround us all as we travel down this road to adoption.
6 Blessed be the Lord, Because He has heard the voice of my supplication. 7The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart exults, And with my song I shall thank Him.
Psalm 28:6-7
I love you!
Mom
I can't wait. There is so much anticipation going on in the family right now I know..Charlee and now another..It is just awesome and i know u guys are going to be great parents.
ReplyDeleteLove always,
Rick
A baby is born with the need to be loved and never outgrows it! Matthew 11:25
ReplyDeleteWell you know I am so excited for you. I will be there with you through out the whole process as only a friend can be. I can not wait to see you holding a child of your own and getting to experience all the joys of motherhood. You are going to love it and I know that you and Gary will make excellent parents. I love you both so much!
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