I began to have second thoughts about sharing my story in application essays — just as it’s no one else’s business, it shouldn’t factor into a college’s decision to accept me.
“Journey Towards Love: Mimi and her Grandfather”
For months a mother tried to convince her dad that he could be a grandparent to the little girl she was bringing home. It took the child considerably less time to bring him around.
“My Endless Summer of Waiting”
This was to have been my first summer as a mom. Instead, we’re waiting for the clearing of one final hurdle.
How We Decided
No one adoption route is right for every family. AF readers describe the thinking that went behind the route they chose.
“Pocket Rocks”
A mother shares the story of her daughter’s growth (who was once deemed “too small to fight for her needs”) at summer camp.
“My Clutter, Myself”
Visitors to our apartment might see a mess, but I see the stories that bound me irretrievably to my daughter. Most of the time.
China Adoption Cost Breakdown
Thinking about adopting from China? Check out this sample budget to get an idea of the cost.
“A Family Commitment”
In this personal essay, one adoptive mother describes how her family learns about her daughter’s Chinese heritage at a school with other families.
“Eli’s First Year Home”
When I adopted an older child, I was prepared to teach him what it means to have a family. Instead, I found myself with a little boy in deep mourning for the loss of his loving foster parents.
“Our First Choice”
I always knew I wanted to grow my family through adoption.
“What Plans?”
Adoption can be an unpredictable journey. We never realized just how unpredictable.
Identifying Eczema
My son’s skin is red, dry, and itchy. What’s going on?
China Adoption Process and Regulations Change
The Center for Children’s Welfare and Adoption has implemented changes in China’s adoption process in three areas: eligibility, post-placement, and fees.
Back to the Land: Planning a Rewarding Heritage Trip
Sometimes adopted children need to go back to their birthplaces to learn more about themselves.
“Losing Sleep”
As my daughter discovers the brave new world of sleepovers, she and I are both missing out on some shut-eye.
“Emotional Armor”
I’d like to shield her from life’s unhappiness, but my daughter’s spirit needs to lead her.
“The View from Here”
As I see it now, my golden years are likely to be filled with pet doggies and boxed mac and cheese. And I can’t imagine anything better.
“When Did My Little Girl Grow Up?”
My daughter is still very much a little girl. But with every passing week, it’s getting frighteningly easier to imagine her teen years.
“Seizing the Day”
I might never have decided to adopt had I foreseen what was to come in other areas of my life. But when I imagine life without my daughter, I know there was no other choice.
“Understanding My Family’s Circles”
My traditional childhood dreams gave way to an unexpected, soul-filling reality.