Seven years ago, my husband and I received the life-changing call that made us parents. Our daughter had already made her grand entrance into the world, and we found ourselves in a whirlwind of packing, phone calls, and an out-of-state dash to finalize our custody of her. Fast-forward to today, and we’re now blessed with three wonderful children—all adopted at birth and from different backgrounds. We’ve joined a unique community of adoptive families who often share similar experiences.
So, how can you tell if your family was formed through adoption? Here are 20 signs you might relate to:
- You can spot another adoptive family in a crowd and share a knowing look.
- Whenever someone mentions they’re “rad,” you instantly think of reactive attachment disorder.
- You could recite adoption and fostering statistics faster than most people can say “family.”
- You’ve been asked if your kids are “real” siblings more times than you can count.
- Your family gets double takes at the grocery store, and it’s become routine.
- Phrases like “adopt a puppy” or “adopt a highway” make you cringe.
- Someone has directly asked you how much your kids cost—awkward!
- You’ve heard people say, “God bless you for providing those children a good home” while your kids are right there.
- A stranger has inquired if celebrity adoptions influenced your decision to adopt.
- You’ve had to explain to someone that yes, you do plan to tell your kids they were adopted—while they’re standing right next to you.
- You’ve faced the “surprise” suggestion that women often discover they’re pregnant after deciding to adopt.
- You’ve been asked about your kids’ country of origin, only for the asker to be confused when you reply with the state they were born in.
- You know exactly what FAS, RAD, and PTSD stand for.
- Being labeled an “adoptive” mom instead of just “mom” has rubbed you the wrong way.
- Your bookshelf is overflowing with copies of Tell Me Again About the Night I Was Born—thanks to all the generous gifts.
- You’ve been complimented on how great you look for just having given birth—despite the fact you didn’t!
- People frequently express their lifelong desire to adopt to you.
- Your kids are often referred to as “lucky” to have you as their parent.
- Someone has asked if you’ll have your “own” kids now that you’ve adopted.
- Your hands are full, your heart is fuller, and you wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Choosing adoption is about embarking on a distinct adventure toward parenthood—a journey that demands extra patience and commitment. If you’re already on this path or considering it, my advice? Grab your favorite drink, prepare for the unexpected, and enjoy the ride.
For more insights on this topic, check out our other blog posts here. And if you’re curious about pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC is an excellent resource to visit.
Summary:
Embarking on the journey of adoption presents unique experiences and challenges that are often shared among adoptive families. From the questions you encounter to the special bonds you form, each moment is a reminder of the love that fills your home.