I haven't bought a lot of things by the way but who can turn down a $5 high chair in great condition?? NOT ME. I have put it in storage for now but wanted to share my awesome find with you guys!
In addition to my yard sailing adventures, I have decided to start an herb garden this year. I planted basil, lemon balm, rosemary and oregano in terra-cotta pots in my kitchen window...so cute. I also planted tomatoes and bell pepper in two large pots on my front porch. My grandmother and my cousin both have green thumbs so I am hoping that they will rub off on me a little. :) Ill let you know how it all turns out!
Nathan and I went to our first class last night. They brought in a adoption lawyer as the speaker and the class was very informative. The law part was a little overwhelming for me but Nathan seemed to have a better handle on it. The second part of the class we watched a video by birthmothers and discussed our book Dear Birthmother. The book is about open adoption and dispelling some of the myths out there about adoption. Additionally, the book is filled with letters from birthmothers to adoptive mothers, birthmothers to their children and vice-versa. The one thing I have taken away from the book is that every woman (no matter what they say) loves the child they have decided to place in adoption. If they didn't love them then they wouldn't have carried them. There are plenty of options out there: the morning-after pill, abortion, etc. and yet these women chose not only to carry their beautiful children but deny any selfish desires in order to give them a better life. I think that is remarkable.
Additionally, the book has us considering our level of openness...back in the day "closed" adoptions were really the only option. I would understand if the birthmother requested a closed adoption but I think some level of openness is best. I want to share pictures and letters if possible...I think it gives an opportunity for communication and honesty instead of assumptions. I also think some level of openness gives opportunity for closer for everyone. Most importantly, I care about our future child. Having an explanation from their birthmother will help them understand that they weren't just discarded or not wanted but that someone cared immensely for them. Going through their life with answers can only be beneficial...
Ultimately, I walked away last night knowing that this is a faith journey. There are so many unknowns and so many things that I could sit around and worry or think about but the truth is that God already has our child picked out. They may make their way into this world differently but He has given them to us to parent, love and raise. I pray for that wonderful baby every day and that God continues to prepare us in this journey. We have another class next Tuesday so I will bring you all up to speed then!
Much love,
Natalie (yard-sailing mother-to-be)
What a find! I had that high chair, too, and the matching crib!
ReplyDeleteYou are so right--your child is already known by God. He or she will be placed in your arms one day, though the way that will happen is yet to be determined. There is no need to worry, as hard as it may be, but only try to be as patient and open as possible and let God do His thing!
It takes an extreme amount of understanding to know that open adoptions can be helpful to the child involved. Very astute.