Sunday, July 11, 2010

Don't worry, be happy... for us

There is nothing really new to report on our new adoption. We got our fingerprints for the FBI last week, and next week we are going to get physicals. We are still waiting for application paperwork from the agency.

I have a funny feeling that people aren't really excited for us this time around. When we were referred twins instead of one child in 2008, some people seemed to think that was a lot to add to our family at this stage in our lives. Mostly, though, people were excited and supportive. I feel like the reaction with this adoption is something like this:

Me: "We're going back to Ethiopia to adopt a 3 1/2 year old boy!"

Person: "Wow. Really? Well. That's great."

I don't know, maybe six kids is the magic number where people begin to wonder if we are on our way to becoming the Duggars. Maybe some think we are too old to have a four year old at home. Maybe some think transracial families are strange. Maybe I'm just reading a lot into the situation that isn't really there.

I guess I'll get my giant shoe ready to move into just in case.

13 comments:

Kimberly said...

Sometimes I think people don't quite know what to say...when we decided to adopt again everyone was kind of like whatever. It was disappointing because sometimes when you're struggling through the wait,or having a down time you need that excitement from everyone else to get you through. Just remember how excited he will be to have a forever family when you bring him home. We're excited for you and we'll keep reading to hear all the updates!

- Kim (another adoptive mom in Nebraska)

Lyra Johnson said...

WE'RE excited for you!!! People are strange... I've noticed most people just don't get too excited about adoption compared to pregnancy. Which is weird to me. Adoption is way more exciting in so many ways!

Keep us posted!

Jennifer said...

I am SO excited for you! You are YOUNG. You have the resources to support more children and the heart to do it! A lot of people would not, but you ARE.
Having been through it before, you know what to expect and are prepared. I admire you for having the energy and the heart to JUST DO IT.

Leslie said...

Well I'm excited for you.... not that that counts for much. I know how it feels to get those "not so excited" comments, when you know if you'd said you were pregnant they'd be jumping for joy. Our boys are older and I even see a difference in people's reactions from when they thought we were adopting younger kids. I wish people knew you are as excited as if you were bringing a newborn into the family.

Becky and Naing said...

I think it is wonderful!! I wish we could go back again and adopt an older child. You have the room, love and means for another child, don't worry what other people think!!

Jen Stutzman said...

You are so funny. You can imagine the comments we got when we said we were adopting three. We got a lot of, do you know what you are getting into?? I eventually just reminded myself we are not doing this for anyone else. God has called us and no matter how many people think we are crazy we are going to do it. Hang in there mama. I am so thrilled for you!!!!!!!!!!

di2622 said...

So, so happy for you!! I know the looks and comments can hurt but don't let them get to you. God is calling you to a wonderful thing - to be a loving, Christian family to a young boy who needs one. God promises to take care of us and not harm us. He will also provide for you - financially, spiritually and emotionally. He is never late.

Looking forward to your journey.

Unknown said...

And if you fill up one shoe... they come in pairs, right? There is always room for more. This is one mom who is THRILLED right along with you that you are going back. I will definitely be celebrating with you when your newest little one comes home!

It doesn't matter what others think or say. There are people who understand... people who know why it's almost not a choice to go back, but something you HAVE to do. I could never imagine not adopting again after we adopted Anna. Now here we are with a referral for our Sara Joy. I've already got a name picked out for the next one. Between Tim and I, Sara will be number six. Is that too many??? Not according to our family.

We will celebrate the joys with you and coomfort you thru the hard times! It actually brought tears to my eyes when I read that you were going back. Good for you!!! I hope you have a really big shoe!!!

Gina said...

I love your heart Paula! I think what happens is people get absorbed in their own life and don't think about the bigger picture in life. There is a book out there called "it's not about Me" that sums it all up.

I believe you and your family have a heart after God's heart. It is awesome that your are getting this little guy. He is so lucky! Keep us updated on your progress, because you know we are checking daily, sometimes hourly. Have a great week friend!

Bennett said...

you just keep moving and grooving! so happy for you!!!

Celeste

Unknown said...

They keep you young and the love is amazing. Nobody understood when we took guardianship of one. Bless you and your family.

Holly said...

Well, let me just say that you and your family have set a tremendous example to our family. I admire the steps that you have taken. This has caused us to step back and make sure that we are making smart and wise choices with our future. You have given me an entirely different perspective on things, and for that, I am truly thankful that I have had the opportunity to know you.

Kristen said...

I am happy for you! I think some folks might react that way because it's not something they would want to do! When we decided to get a 2nd dog we got the same reaction from some people. Over a dog... REALLY? I do admire what you are doing... this little puppy has worn this almost 45 year old out! Ha Ha!