I'm quite proud of the "work" we put into our adoption profile book.  It's a highly personal thing and scary to think that our life story is crammed into 22 pages.  I've always been so open about our journey so I figured I'd share some of the photos from the book.  I'll post more once the process starts, but we need to raise more money before we can move forward.  Pray for us, we need it now more than ever!  xoxo

Second appointment done!

Dan and I had another meeting with Jenny at AIS.  We went over what our profile book should look like and we are still working on that.  It's really important because it's the first impression the birth mom has of a couple.  It's like making a Tinder profile or EHarmony.  I never did online dating but I know it's difficult to put yourself out there and finding the right thing to say and the right photos are key!  After that, she gave us information on two agencies she felt would be a good match for us to work with.  They are very different and have different pros and cons.  I never expected this process to be as complicated and thorough as it is.  There is so much to think over.   Do we want a small agency that's hands-on and nurtures their birth moms and has lower failure rates but fewer placements, meaning we'd have to wait longer?  Or do we want a large agency with birth moms all over the country that provides more placements but is more competitive and you have less information on the birth moms' progress?  But you can have a baby sooner.  Obviously it's a lot to think about and consider.  That's why I say I didn't expect it to be so complicated.  Then again I never thought I would have to consider these things.  I have such a tremendous amount of respect for families that have been in or going through this process.  It's not easy.  It is a totally different compartment of stress, emotion and WORK that we've been faced with.  But after everything we've been through with all the IVF and embryo transfers, it's almost becoming a new normal.  I won't know what to do if I'm not trying to raise money, or complete some form, or get a painful medical test done.  I guess (or hope) that's what parenthood will bring.  A new bout of stress, emotion and work.  But I will happily welcome that.  It will feel good to actually being doing something so worthwhile and have something amazing result in the end.  I hope I know what that feels like.  We still have to find more money so we still need to fundraise and apply for grants.  Pray for us.  As always, thank you for caring and for your love and support.  Next time, I'll share our profile book.  Love to you all!  Carrie