Q & A

Jen offered to send her readers five questions of her choice, and I signed up the other night. She kindly obliged and customized some questions just for me.

So here goes…

1) I know this question was probably addressed somewhere in your blog archives, but what made you decide to adopt? Why China?

I decided to adopt because I was longing to have a child and I was stuck. I was in love with a man who didn’t think he wanted to be married and have a family. (He has since experienced a change of heart). I knew I was meant to have a family. I’m not one to sit passively, so I began to think of ways to become a mother. On a bit of a whim, I punched in “adoption” on a Google search and up came a link to my adoption agency. I liked that Steven Curtis Chapman was associated with them, as I respect him, and I sent away for an information packet. Then I shared the idea with my mom and she was really supportive and excited about the idea. It just felt right and so I made plans to move forward. I chose to apply to the China program because they were accepting singles, and I would only need to travel once. The more I learned about the situation in China, the more sure I was that I'd made the right choice.

2) When did you decide that you wanted to teach? Are you happy with that decision? Is it as rewarding as you thought?

I decided to teach after spending a few years in the “business world” after college. I was disillusioned with the whole thing, and I wanted to do something that mattered. My sister had just started teaching, and I helped her out in the classroom one day and it just felt right. Hmm, see a trend here? So, I researched a few teaching credential programs in the area, and chose one that fit my schedule and my needs. A year and a half later I started teaching full-time. I am so happy with that decision. I enjoy almost every day in the classroom. I love my students – fourth graders are the best! I love instruction and curriculum planning. I work at a wonderful school where I am appreciated and allowed to have some autonomy. It’s highly rewarding for me. I can’t imagine doing anything else now.

3) Out of all the blogs/bloggers you read, what three resonate the most with you and why?

I don’t think I can stick to just three! I guess what really resonates with me the most is authenticity. I admire others’ abilities to put it all out there without being bitter or negative, and those that keep looking for the good in difficult situations. Some of you have been through such heartache, frustration, loss, and grief, and yet you reflect on those things with such dignity and graciousness. I am encouraged by that kind of strength and wisdom.

Conversely, my blog is pretty superficial. I know that. I just thought I’d be documenting my adoption journey and the milestones along the way, and that’s what I’ve done so far. I really don’t use my blog as a journal or diary. All I can tell you is still waters run deep. ;-)

4) What was the most difficult period of time in your life? Why?

My twenties were difficult for me. I had yet to discover my purpose in life, and I was realizing that life doesn’t always go according to plan. I was unhappy and frustrated. I was suffering from a chronic health condition that was disruptive to my everyday life. I just didn’t know what to do.

But once I discovered my purpose, I began to enjoy life more. For me, at that time, I needed to pursue my musical aspirations and have a job that was meaningful to me. Once I did so, I found a lot more satisfaction in my life, and my health improved dramatically. My condition has been in remission for several years now. Life is good. I’m so blessed. Really!

5) What are the five most important values you hope to instill in your daughter?

I want my children to value:
• Family
• A Relationship with God
• Their Life’s Purpose
• Generosity
• Compassion

And I know it’s up to me to model those values.

I’d offer to send you five questions, but I’m afraid I’m just too busy in these last two weeks of school to be thinking of questions right now. June 15th can’t get here soon enough!