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
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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
Challenges and Joys of Adoption Finalization
Three years ago, today, on May 9, 2008, our adoption of William and Antwan was finalized. They came to live with us on February 15th, but, on this day, it was made official and legal! It was a special, monumental day. And, at the same time, it was like any other day when you have … Continue reading Challenges and Joys of Adoption Finalization
Teaching Moments: What My Kids Have Taught Me
Like many parents, I thought I was pretty smart when I became a mom. But everyday, my three children teach me even more. Either I wasn't that smart at the beginning or I'm really, really smart now. These are my life lessons from my 8-year-old, William. 1. A high five is appropriate in almost any situation. … Continue reading Teaching Moments: What My Kids Have Taught Me
Why We Rescued a Bullied Beta Fish
The other day, I was in the store with the babies and we stopped to look at the fish. I was looking at the Betas and I noticed that in one container, there were 2 of them. The first rule of Betas is that you can't put them together or they will kill each other. One of … Continue reading Why We Rescued a Bullied Beta Fish
Navigating Adoption: The Impact of Labels on Identity
A few weeks ago, at the doctor's office, we were discussing the fact that William hadn't gained any weight. She commented that maybe the "real" mom was thin. I was so focused on answering the question and taking the super-mature opportunity to say that she was actually over-weight, that it didn't register right away. I Am … Continue reading Navigating Adoption: The Impact of Labels on Identity
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