The Meeting!

We met with the birthparents on Friday and it was a long, but fulfilling, day. They are both really amazing. Jason and the birthdad (A) hit it off. They are SO much alike it isn't even funny. A rode with us to see the bmom (T), so he and Jason had plenty of time to hit it off. When we got there, drama ensued. Getting into the prison was not as simple as expected, and clearly T had also had a rough morning before our visit. It was clear through our conversation that she continues to struggle with the plan of adoption. She is committed, but she is sad. Of course. I can't even imagine.

We talked about the baby, the adoption plan, our families, etc. I can tell T is wanting more continued contact than A. We made it clear that we are very open, so they just have to tell us what they are comfortable with. We all talked about how amazed we are by the match, how perfect we all are for each other. None of us really could have imagined this situation, so we are all taking it step by step. Paperwork was reviewed, some if it signed. It was surreal. A was wanting to sign his relinquishment paperwork that day (which of course legally he can't). He is very committed to this plan. Both T and A asked that our FULL name chosen for this little girl, last name and all, be placed on the original birth certificate. They have clearly thought a lot about this plan.

So, now it gets complicated. We wait for baby girl to be born, then mom has to leave the hospital before the baby to get back to the prison. They do not notify anyone when she goes to the hospital (including dad!), so our social worker will have to arrange another visit to get into the prison to get the final paperwork signed. We are hoping this goes quickly, but we are slightly concerned. So, we just have to wait and see what happens.

For now, we have been frantically trying to get last minute baby items, get the nursery painted, get it organized, and try to figure out how bills will be paid when I'm off of work (no plan for that yet!). You'd think after trying for 3 years for a child, we'd be ready. But, people are right when they say you can never be ready. I am keenly aware that my life is about to change drastically, and yet I can't wrap my head around it. I can't plan for it, or assure myself that we'll be ok - emotionally or financially. I just have to wait for the change to come, and hope that the strength we have within us will get us through. Wow, this expectant parent thing is heavy stuff!

We are as ready as we can be for you, baby girl! We're dreaming of your arrival, so come on out when you are ready!