Life Takes a Turn
It can be funny how life takes a turn when you have a certain destination in mind. Life sent us a different way than what we had initially thought when it came time to start our family. After finding out we could not have children biologically. We talked about adoption and ultimately decided that would be the route we wanted to take.
Naturally, we did what anyone does when they are looking for information: We googled it! The top three results included LifeLong Adoptions. We read the reviews, and because of all the positive reviews, we decided to call and get more information. After talking with LifeLong staff, it was clear we wanted LifeLong to help us grow our family.
Our family and friends were all so supportive, especially knowing our circumstances regarding fertility. Having the support of the ones around us really helped us feel confident embarking on our journey to parenthood. Of course, we still had feelings of nervousness and wondered if we would be successful, but we trusted that everything would work out.
Our Opportunity
If we are being honest, the home study seemed to be the hardest part of the journey. We joke and say if you can pass a home study, you can do anything in life. After we were approved, we were quickly chosen for an opportunity. Hannah did most of the talking with the expectant mother. She was so kind and easy to talk to, so it felt like two girlfriends were getting to chat.
As we got to know her, we found we had several things in common, which allowed for our bond to grow closer. We found it was hard to have a balance between being guarded and protecting yourself but also being an open book.
The expectant mother wanted to meet with us, so we drove to see her about a week before her due date. She invited us over for lunch and our relationship grew. Nick's mother came with us and made several meals for the expectant mother to have after she gave birth. Nick’s mother loved being able to build a relationship with her as well.
The Birth
We talked with her about what she wanted as far as us being at the hospital so we could make sure to have an understanding of her needs and wants. She told us she would like for us to be there for the birth, which Hannah was very excited about. Since we were there visiting, we stayed until she gave birth.
It was around 3:00 a.m., we received a call that she was in labor and ready to go to the hospital. We jumped up and were ready to go! Hannah was able to be in the room with her as she gave birth. Hannah cut the cord, and it was a magical moment. Hannah held this sweet baby boy and then handed him over to his birth mother. Nick was able to come soon after to meet baby Lincoln shortly followed by his new grandmother.
His birth mother had said she wanted to spend at least one night with Lincoln alone, and we respected that. It was such a bittersweet moment to be in a room with someone who is so sad and heartbroken as she is saying goodbye while, at the same time, we were at our happiest. Lincoln’s birth mother made the best decision she could for her child, and for that, we are forever grateful.
Our Family Is Complete
After we left the hospital, we stayed in Georgia for a while, and Lincoln’s birth mother interacted with us a lot. She even came to Lincoln’s first doctor appointment, which was very special. When it was time to go back home, we were excited to have our family complete and to have our extending family finally meet Lincoln.
During the process, we were so lucky to have an amazing team at LifeLong, which included the social worker we had as well as the attorney. Everyone who was a part of our journey was the reason we were able to get through everything. When navigating adoption, it is so important to trust your team and to do what they suggest so you are successful. Work through all the tough times, and remember that everything will work out. Spend time together, and talk to each other about how you are feeling.
Nick’s mother told us that if she could use one word to describe our family, it would be “adventure.” Every day is an adventure with Lincoln, and we can't imagine life without him. His birth mother loves Lincoln and checks in on him a few times throughout the year. Your adventure awaits you, so be patient and be ready!