Sunday, July 27, 2008

Back in the book! #2 (We need your help!)

We're once again going back into the book. Our second match fell through yesterday when the birth family decided to parent. Although we continue to be very sure that our time will come, we have to admit that this one was difficult. The potential birthmother gave birth on Tuesday to a most adorable baby boy. We hopped on the first plane available and arrived just a couple of hours after he was born. At first, things seem to go very well. Unlike in our previous match, we had never actually met the birthparents in person so we were relieved when we all hit it off immediately. They baby was to be released from the hospital on Thursday morning, and the birth parents were scheduled to sign relinquishments that afternoon. Wednesday night was the first sign that things might not go as planned, and by Thursday morning they had asked to push back the signing of the papers until Monday.

Per the original plan, the baby was released from the hospital to us on Thursday. We all discussed that we'd try and spend time together over the weekend. Additionally, the birth father advised that his mother, aunt, and sister were flying into town and that they would want some "alone time" with the baby. So, we took the little one back to our hotel. He was an absolute pleasure to be around. He had a really great first night "home" from the hospital (but of course we didn't get a wink of sleep). The following night, the birthfather's family arrived in town and we brought the little one over to them to spend the night. As you've probably already guessed, we got the call late the following evening that they had decided to parent. It was heart breaking - BUT we were very happy to hear that they now had the support necessary to provide for the little guy. We harbor no bad feelings for them what so ever, and wish them the best of luck in their parenting journey. As before, we continue to feel honored to have been picked as potential parents for their child. The way we see it we've now received two stamps of approval from potential birthmothers. Also, it was a great learning experience. Having never been through the process before, we now know exactly what to expect at the hospital, and know exactly what one needs to make it through those first few days with the baby at the hotel.

Once again, we're asking you all for help. We are more eager then ever to start our new family! We need you to talk to your friends, family, and associates about adoption. Somewhere, right now, a potential birthmother is considering adoption and all it takes is a recommendation from a friend to move us to the top of the list! Thank you all for your continued support!

~William & John