Adoption has come so far. 50 years ago: Birth moms had very few rights. Parents adopting children didn’t have enough information on trauma informed care. Adoptees didn’t have the freedom to share their stories. While anyone in the adoption triad will tell you the adoption space is far from perfect, it’s healthy to look back…
Today we are incredibly grateful to share part two of our blog series with Ashley Mitchell, writer, speaker, and adoption advocate. With her compassionate and articulate voice, Ashley starts powerfully honest conversations from her perspective as a birth mom. Read part one of Ashley’s story here _ After I walked out of that abortion clinic I…
As a former foster child, as well as an international adoptee, I’m often asked about my nationality. In other words, people are curious as to where I originated, what my heritage is and to whom I once belonged. Believe me, I have been — in my lifetime — ultra curious about these things, as well….
Adoption is a muddy road. I’ve said those words so many times. So many look at our family, made up of the white dad and white mom and three little black sons, and inevitably ask… “What’s it like?” Depending on my mood and the time allotted on the clock, sometimes I say, “It’s great!” But,…
It’s been a decade and four adoptions, and still open adoption can be perplexing. Perhaps you know what I mean. Adoption agencies boast that open adoption is the way to go. They encourage openness, touting it as a joyous, loving, simple choice that fosters peace, harmony, and connectivity. But what is open adoption, really, and…
Dear Adopt a Love Story community, Today we are incredibly grateful to start a new blog series with Ashley Mitchell, writer, speaker, and adoption advocate. With her compassionate and articulate voice, Ashley starts powerfully honest conversations from her perspective as a birth mom. Today, Ashley is sharing the beginning of her story. — Disclaimer: This…
We’ve been following along with Evan and Ashley as they navigate the adoption journey. They decided to start writing about their process when they realized they received lots of the same questions. We’ll be hearing more from Evan and Ashley over the next few months, as they answer the frequently asked questions they encounter. Today,…
Ten years ago, I was in a very different place. We had begun the adoption process for the first time, and my type-A self had one goal: get a baby ASAP. I had been through the proverbial ringer. A mysterious year-and-a-half long illness resulted in a near-death experience and the diagnosis of an autoimmune disease….
If I asked you what you know about Marietta Spencer, you would most likely meet me with a blank stare. Understandably so. It’s not her name you will recognize, but her words. Marietta wasn’t just a ninety-five year old former social worker who recently passed away. No, Marietta Spencer changed the adoption world for the…
This week we are continuing our storytelling journey with an interview with Sandy Ujfalusy. Sandy reflects on her family’s international adoption journey over the last twelve years, and shares how she has encountered grace and compassion along the way. For readers who don’t you yet, can you start out with a “big picture’ sketch of…
We’re privileged to tell Caitlin and Nate’s continuing story on today’s blog. Caitlin Smith writes about their journey to Down Syndrome adoption, from brokenness to redemption. “And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 This has…