Understanding Prejudice in Transracial Families

One thing that I have learned is that when you adopt transracially is that it's going to be different.  There are things that I have learned about what it might be like to be black and things that I've learned about being the mother of a black child.  I've learned that even the most well-intentioned person … Continue reading Understanding Prejudice in Transracial Families

Lessons on Compassion from My Child

There is a man that lives in my area.  People have many nicknames for him, but I don't know if anyone knows his real name.  At first glance, he's a random homeless guy.  This is sad enough.  But when you add the fact that he actually has a house and lots of money due to an inheritance … Continue reading Lessons on Compassion from My Child

How much does the first year affect a child?

She was a good, sweet baby. As exhausted as I was, I was still aware of how low-maintenance she was. She didn't cry much, only when hungry or tired. But, she smiled, she smiled a lot. For the first year of her life, her future was unclear. She was being transported to visitations with her … Continue reading How much does the first year affect a child?

Our Journey to Parenting: The DragonCon Experience

After years of going to Dragoncon, this one in 2008, was going to be very different. Because we were getting ready for our first DragonCon with kids.  We were focused on getting the boys ready and figuring out how we were going to afford the trip at all, with two new sons.  We couldn't even begin … Continue reading Our Journey to Parenting: The DragonCon Experience

Overcoming Racial Challenges in Adoption: A Personal Story

Adopting black children changes your perspective.  I find myself drawn to other black people now.  I also find myself saying things like "other black people" because I now think I am one. : )  I worry about race in a way that I didn't before.  I knew racism existed and I knew that I wasn't a racist.  But, … Continue reading Overcoming Racial Challenges in Adoption: A Personal Story

Common Misconceptions About Adoptive Families

Perception is an interesting thing.  I live my days with three children that are so much mine, in my heart, that I practically have memories giving birth to them.  I know I didn't, though.  No need to be concerned for my grasp on reality. But the point is that I don't dwell on the fact … Continue reading Common Misconceptions About Adoptive Families

Adopting foster children and their issues.

He was born 3.5 pounds, 6 weeks premature, at home.  He had crack in his system.  The biological mother was allowed to go home with him because she was cooperative and, therefore, it was labeled "low risk." Foster Care Two years later, he was put into foster care, with his three siblings, when it was … Continue reading Adopting foster children and their issues.

Understanding Child Behavior: Lessons from My Four-Year-Old

My four-year old son, Antwan, is at a tricky age. He knows he's a kid, but he doesn't want to be treated like one.  Actually, he's always been like that, so maybe it's just that he's tricky.  He doesn't find anything more frustrating than feeling like he's not being listened to. He is often the voice … Continue reading Understanding Child Behavior: Lessons from My Four-Year-Old