Waist deep

A lot of people have been asking us how our adoption process is going lately, and we're always excited to share what's going on! Currently, we are still waist deep in the paperwork process. This week we plan to send out all the papers we have completed so far, as well as our application fee. I think it will help me feel like we've made a dent in some of our paperwork when it's not all still stuffed in our folder! :)

In addition to signing our name a million times, getting physicals done, and deciding who to put down as our references, a chunk of our time has been devoted to answering questions - about everything.

My mom and I were talking about some of the questions recently and how strange it is to have to explain to someone your philosophy on parenting and how you plan to raise your children before you can be "approved" or chosen to be a parent. Especially in today's society, where so many people become parents without much of a plan beforehand. It's surreal, really...and difficult to explain unless you've gone through the process yourself. Even answering a simple question can be deeply analyzed - Will this be taken the wrong way? Will we not be chosen by a birthmother if we put down that we believe that spanking is an appropriate form of punishment? Do they even know what an AWANA program is? Should I describe myself in mostly positive terms or some negative terms too? And how do I do all of this without going crazy?!?!

So, to help some of you who may wonder what kinds of questions are asked when you go to adopt, I've included a "short" list below. :) How would you answer these questions?

• What is your motivation for adoption?
• What are your attitudes toward birthparents?
• What are your strengths/weaknesses?
• How would you describe yourself?
• What attracted you to your spouse?
• What are the strengths that you bring to your marriage? What are the strengths your spouse brings to the marriage?
• Describe your roles in the marriage. Who assumes responsibility for what?
• What are the areas of your marriage that need the greatest amoung of attention?
• What experiences have you had that will prepare you for parenting?
• What are the expectations and values you have for your children?
• Describe characteristics of an ideal home environment.
• What form of discipline do you use or expect to use?
• Are there any circumstances where you feel that physical discipline is appropriate? If so, under what circumstances?
• How will you talk with your child about adoption?
• What faith do you plan to raise your children?

And these were just on the general questionnaire!! There are 2 additional questionnaires to fill out if you are open to adopting a child of a different race. Maybe I'll include some of those questions on a diferent post...