adoption story: erin and jonathan

When I first met Erin and Jonathan, they were contemplating which adoption path was right for their family, as they sought to become a family of three. They were trying to decide between going with one local traditional agency or trying a multi-agency approach with a consultant.

They came onboard with me in October, and started immediately working on their home study, was completed by December, and then the real wait began!  They were matched 7 months after being home study ready.

They brought their beautiful daughter home this past December, and recently finalized their adoption around her sixth month.

I recently caught up with Erin, as she reflected on their path to building a family.  Curl up with a cup of coffee and join us!


What led you to adoption?

The desire to have a family led us TO adoption but God led us THROUGH adoption to our baby! We tried for many years to have a family the conventional way. 

However, after we experienced four miscarriages in five years, we knew that there was another path God had chosen for us. After the 3rd miscarriage we both started to look into the world of adoption. We so badly wanted a baby and now, at this point, we finally were listening to God and ready to start process to find our baby! 
  



What would you share with families who are just starting the process?

Don’t give up. It gets hard, it can be a long process, it can cost A LOT of money and it can test you but don’t give up! Remember why you started in the first place. Take it one step at a time.

Share the load with each other. God wants to share your worries, concern and victories too! Rely on your consultant…no questions is too small! 




What surprised you the most about domestic adoption?

Actually, the whole thing was a surprise to us! We knew nothing about adoption at the beginning. We relied on our consultant for everything! We were shocked to learn the number of children in the US that need a loving home and are placed for adoption every year. There’s also a wonderful community out there to help you. So many other families going through the same thing. You’re not alone!
Another thing that surprised us was the love you can have for another person for being so strong and courageous for placing their child up for adoption. A bond is created and embrace it! Whether you choose open or closed, embrace that God has bonded you together with his precious gift.   



How did your faith deepen during the process?
God led you to this point, he will lead through it!

Your faith might be tested through the process. I know mine was! Jonathan seemed so strong in his faith while I often found myself worrying and doubting. 

But if you constantly turn to God and let him carry your worries, your faith will deepen to another level. Allow God to work through you as you wait. He has a plan. What he has waiting for you is far more than you could imagine. 




Finalization day
Anything else you would like to share?
Our road to this point has had its fair share of ups and downs….5 years of trying, 4 miscarriages, 2 surgeries, countless tests, 2 years of adoption waiting and a lot of savings account depleted but we wouldn’t trade any of it now. It was hard to see the light in the dark hours but now her smile brings a new light that shines brighter than anything. We praise God for entrusting us with her- his perfect gift! 

Any advice for others on the adoption journey?

For those starting- jump all in!
For those waiting- keep trusting
For those who know- this is amazing isn’t it?
This is wild, crazy, fun journey…..ENJOY EVERY MINUTE! 

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