Andy

New beginning Hello friend. In creating this journaI, I have pulled on my own experiences in working with orphans, as well as the stories of many families who have already begun this journey. I personally want you to make a conscious decision about the new child or children you are adding to your family. If you will be honest with yourself, I promise you this will help you in the future. I can tell you now, you might change your mind after considering questions you normally wouldn’t ask yourself. Just remember, this was made to help you. I truly pray that God will lead you and your family in the way He wants, because when you have struggles, you will need to have something to stand on! 5 “ Teach me your way, Lord, and I will live by your truth. Give me an undivided mind to fear your name. Psalms 86:11 (CSB) 6 CONTENT 01 Your story How did I get here pg. 9 ...................................... 02 Your expectations Why I want to adopt pg. 75 .................................... 03 On my way to a new life Bringing my child home pg. 119 ................................... They are different How to understand my child 04 pg. 165 .................................. 7 8 Part 1 YOUR STORY OF ADOPTION 01 9 Your story of adoption In this section, write down your thoughts, emotions, and questions about the adoption process. Day by day, create your own story—because this story will help you one day. Spend time with God. Ask what He wants for you and ask Him to open His plan for your life. 10 HERE IS YOUR STORY OF WHY YOU DECIDED TO ADOPT. My story of adoption Spend time thinking about when and why you started to think about adoption. What fears did you have? 11 12 My story of adoption My story of adoption 13 14 My story of adoption My story of adoption Talk to someone, especially your spouse. 15 16 My story of adoption My story of adoption 17 My story of adoption Try to be honest; go deeper and be real about all of your emotions and feelings. WHAT DO YOU FEEL? 18 My story of adoption 19 20 My story of adoption My story of adoption 21 22 My story of adoption MY SPOUSE My story of adoption What does my spouse say about adoption? Are we on the same page? 23 24 My story of adoption My story of adoption 25 26 My story of adoption