Scott & Samantha's Story : Our Adoption JourneyOur adoption journey started the way many others have: a desire to have children and grow our family. When we met almost 16 years ago and were discussing what our future together looked like, we both agreed that adoption was going to be a part of that. I had multiple family members who were adopted both internationally and domestically, as infants and older children. When I was in college, my cousins, who adopted a sibling group of three, invited me along to many of their initial agency meetings, so I felt I had a decent idea of what that process would look like. After we got married, I gave birth to our first child three years later. We were completely enamored with our son, loved watching him grow, and helping nurture his desires and talents. However, when we were ready to add another child to our family a few years later, we encountered some unforeseen fertility issues. It was a frustrating road block to how we had anticipated our family journey to look, but looking back, this struggle allowed God to open up doors to multiple other blessings we never could have expected otherwise. I’ll never forget the day that adoption was the most firmly set on my heart. I loved working with children, so I began helping out as a Sunday school teacher. During a sermon one Sunday, our pastor discussed how we need to be more intentional in how we serve our community by going where our talents and desires were strongest. He referenced a passage in the Bible about caring for widows and orphans. It was in that moment that I decided that’s how I wanted to focus on serving God, by serving others. That night I looked up different volunteer opportunities with foster and adoption agencies and came across an opening for data entry with Christian Adoption Services. I spent the entire summer there, weekly updating records electronically. I had some amazing conversations with the staff. Earlier that year I struck up a friendship with a new coworker and she opened up to me about her difficult childhood. She ended up being placed in the care of a foster family after her mom died, where she developed a life-long relationship with her foster mom who made an impactful difference in her life. Her story, coupled with our pastor’s recent sermon, put it on my heart to look into becoming a foster parent. I talked to my husband that night about this calling to open our home to children and families that needed help. We wanted more than anything to be parents again, and we began studying up on and looking into different foster and adoption agencies. We scheduled meetings with all of the ones in our surrounding area and talked to multiple friends and families who had experience with each one. I remember talking with one supervisor about our desire to “foster to adopt”. She tenderly explained to us that “foster to adopt” was a naïve and overly romanticized thought process and not really “a thing”. She couldn’t guarantee that any child placed with us would be available for adoption and that reunification is the ideal goal for these families that they are helping. We had so much to learn, but our hearts ultimately were on serving our community and being parents again in whatever capacity we could manage. We ultimately decided to become a foster family with the same agency my co-worker had been with. It was an amazing, difficult, humbling, and eye-opening experience. We ended up being foster parents for almost 5 years and took in a total of 4 long term placements during that time. We grieved and celebrated alongside them as they were either reunited with their birth families or adopted by extended family when reunification wasn’t attainable. After our first two placements were reunited with their parents and left our home, we decided to pursue adoption simultaneously. Since I already had experience with CAS and was impressed with their Christ-centered mission, we contacted them right away. We had already been through all the background checks, home inspections, continuing education, frequent share and support groups and completed mountains of paperwork with our foster agency; had formed relationships with birth families, and alternatively, experienced caring for a child where their families weren’t involved or participating in their lives for a variety of reasons. Because of all this, the process of adoption didn’t seem so scary or intimidating to begin. We felt more than ready. We thought we knew what we were prepared to get into and the potential difficulties that we might encounter and highlighted our preference of an open adoption. Our son was four, going on five years old at this time. He really wanted a “brother or sister that stayed with us and didn’t leave”. We had the extra room prepared, all the gear, clothes, crib, etc. We decided we wouldn’t announce our adoption plans until we matched with a family. And then we waited. And waited. And waited. For six years we sat on the list of families waiting to adopt. Nightly we’d pray to God to match us with expectant parents. We didn’t expect to be matched immediately; we were pragmatic. We believed God had a plan for us and it was all going to be right in His time, but in truthfulness, it was disheartening to go so long without being matched. We thought there was something wrong with our profile. Were we not good enough? Was there something wrong with how we were presenting our family? Were we too “weird” or “nerdy”? We’d ask “God, I know you have perfect reasons and timing, but why is it taking so long?” We took comfort in reading the story of Sarah and Abraham, sought the support of other adoptive families, and continued to foster more kids during this time. We kept in regular contact with our social workers and they let us know that there was a lot of interest in our family, but ultimately most of the expectant women who were looking at our profile book decided they wanted to parent instead. Being foster parents for a while, we knew that was great! Keeping families together was a goal with which we were familiar! On a few occasions we had been presented with time-sensitive special situations, but for one reason or another, one of us wasn’t comfortable with it and we knew that both of us needed to be on board. If we were going to make a lifelong commitment to another family, it had to be an enthusiastic yes from the both of us. On one hand we were so happy these women were able to find and receive the support they needed to choose life and parent their children, but on the other, we felt the ache of not being matched. It was bittersweet. Then one summer morning we received a call from CAS. Both my husband and I assumed it was them wanting to set up another meeting to redo our yearly assessments and paperwork and have us update our profile book. This would be our third one, and we had quite a few changes occur over the last couple of years. It was the weekend and we were getting ready to go out as a family to the fair. We expected it would be a quick call where we’d set up a few dates and then be on our way. But we didn’t expect the next words out of our social worker’s mouth to be “You were chosen”. My husband and I were both startled and looked at each other with bewildered smiles on our faces. “Wait! What? You’re kidding?!” Our social worker assured us it was true. The birth parents were both drawn to a large mural I had painted on a bedroom wall that we included in our profile book. They liked that we were nerdy; aspects of our profile that I thought might put off or dissuade expectant parents from our family ended up being a key part of why they chose us. We were beyond elated! Our social worker said they had been counseling birth mom for quite a while and she was firm in her decision to choose us to parent her child. They also stated that mom was due in the next 10 weeks and wanted to get a match meeting set up between now and then. We had met birth parents and families before for our foster care meetings, but this felt entirely different; filled with more anxiety, trepidation, and nervousness. They told us that the match meeting is often like a first date and that is very, very true! We wondered if she would like us or if we’d come across bumbling and awkward. And we probably were! A lot of the first meeting was a blur due to nerves, but the one thing that stood out to us the most was how sweet and amazing and easy to talk to Karisa was. She was so mindful and seemed incredibly informed about the adoption process. We felt almost immediately that this was the woman that God had been preparing us to wait for all this time. Our families met a few more times after that and each time we left feeling more confident and connected than before. My cheeks were left aching from smiling and laughing so much. We spent hours together even after the social workers left. We easily agreed on a name, goals, hopes and dreams she had for her child. A month and a half after our initial match, and six years after we first submitted our application, our son was born. I got to be in the delivery room when he was born (which was a last-minute decision made by Karisa to include me; I felt so honored and touched that she allowed me to be a part of this intimate and emotional time) and got to cut the cord! It was an amazing experience. Our emotions were all over the place. I was in a state of joy and elation and couldn’t stop smiling! My husband was a blubbering, emotional mess when he first laid eyes on our son and was able to hold him. I don’t think I cried until we said goodbye to Karisa at the hospital after reading her hand-written letter to us, and the enormity of her amazing, loving, and selfless decision to place him with us rushed over me. It was a poignant moment in our lives that I will never forget. It's been a few months now and I love the beautiful relationship we’ve continued to develop with Karisa. We feel blessed that she lives relatively close-by to us, so we’ll be able to meet up for visits with our children and spend quality time together going forward. We keep in touch by texting pictures and updates every couple of days and have met up for breakfast together. Our adoption journey was long (frustratingly so at times), but we never gave up hope and trusted in God’s timing, and I thank Him every day for bringing our two families together.  Karisa's Story: A Birth Mom's Perspective As a 25 year old with a 5 year old little girl, I never thought I would be thinking of adoption. I got pregnant very soon in a new relationship and thought everything was going to be great. This was my chance at having the family I had always dreamt of. But life had other plans for me.
I started looking into adoption when I was 6 months pregnant. I knew my baby boy needed a better home than I could provide. I was a single mom of a 5 year old girl and that was already taking all of my time and attention. My mom and dad had passed away years ago and it was just me and my brother. I started by calling around to different agencies and seeing what's out there in the state I lived in. I found Christian Adoption Services right away and called them to set up an interview and see how the process worked. As soon as I met with them, I knew that was the agency I wanted to work with. They didn't pressure me into making a decision. They wanted to just talk and make sure that I would be making the decision for me and my baby that would support us all. I started looking through the parent books and reading their stories. I picked out my top 3 families. Once I did that, I went with my top pick of the 3 and went with the family that my heart felt would be an amazing family to my son. I wasn't sure if I wanted a closed or open adoption so before I met with the family I sat down and really thought about what would be best for my baby boy and my daughter. I wanted my daughter to know her brother and I wanted to be in my son's life and make sure he knows me and my family. When I met Scott and Samantha the first time, I was so nervous I had no clue what questions I should ask, I didn't know exactly how this was all going to work; what if I didn't like any of the families or they didn't like me? When meeting with Scott and Samantha, I instantly felt this good feeling. They were tender hearted and so easy going. They told me all about their huge extended family and how excited their son was to be a big brother. We talked about what I wanted and how involved I wanted to be with my son. They were so open to making sure I had a spot in their family and making sure I knew I would be able to watch my son grow up and have my daughter be very involved with her brother. After the first meeting, everything got to be more and more real, I was so sad that I was placing my son for adoption, but I knew this family could give my son everything I couldn’t and more and I still got to be there for him and be in his life. I went into labor 2 weeks early. I was very nervous; what if I see my baby boy and can’t place him? Will it be too hard? I had mentally prepared myself as much as I could but there is nothing like giving birth to your child and knowing you will be saying goodbye. Once Scott and Samantha got to the hospital, it reminded me why I picked them, why I was ok placing my son with them. They are so loving and caring and felt like my family already. The most beautiful part of my whole adoption process was when I had my son and I held him for the first time and Samantha was right alongside me, and we just stared at this beautiful baby boy that was born. And in that moment, I felt calm and safe with my decision. Not only did they love my son as much as I did but they were beaming with happiness and love. Seeing Scott as a dad has been so heartwarming, the way that he makes sure he is safe and cared for correctly. When I left the hospital and left my son behind, it was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life, but it also gave me closure knowing that he will have the family I always dreamed of, it makes my heart so happy. I am so thankful for the adoption agency and all they did for me, not only did they make sure to give me many options in my situation, but they supported me fully. During one of the hardest times in my life I found a whole new support system and friends.
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By Katie Wussow & Sue Sikkink |
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 Happy endings don’t always have happy beginnings. Late one afternoon, our agency received a call from a family stating they had been caring for a child that was not theirs for several months and they wanted to know how to go about providing a forever home for her. The child’s biological parents knew they could not provide a safe environment for their child and had asked the Smith* family if they would be willing to care for her. Ross and Sara* completed the home study process in rapid time – completing all three appointments and the required paperwork in just two weeks. The Smiths were determined to do whatever was necessary for this little child they had been entrusted with, for her ultimate well-being. Once Ross and Sara were home study approved, they worked with a lawyer to assist with finalization of the adoption. The Smith family is overjoyed to welcome this new addition to their family. Through Christian Adoption Services, God turned what began as a desperate situation into a beautiful story of hope. *Names changed to protect the privacy of the parties. |
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Paynesville, Minnesota!
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University, pursuing their dual degree through Minot State University for Social Work and Human Development and Family Science. After graduation, I am hoping to work with families in some way. I am praying for the Lord to provide an open door for me to walk through.
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
The ability to serve others while keeping God at the center of all work is what really drew me to Christian Adoption Services. Not all agencies allow God to even be mentioned by the social worker, so the opportunity for it to be such an influential part of an agency, and to learn from professionals who serve the Lord is amazing!
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
My free time is usually filled with activities with Chi Alpha Campus Ministries, chit chatting with my roommates and friends, wedding planning, or game nights with my friends!
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father.” John 15:11-15 MSG God does not love us out of command, nor do we love him out of command. It is a choice and an honor. God provides joy, love, and leads by example. He calls us friends and desires relationship, what an honor!
I am originally from Paynesville, Minnesota!
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University, pursuing their dual degree through Minot State University for Social Work and Human Development and Family Science. After graduation, I am hoping to work with families in some way. I am praying for the Lord to provide an open door for me to walk through.
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
The ability to serve others while keeping God at the center of all work is what really drew me to Christian Adoption Services. Not all agencies allow God to even be mentioned by the social worker, so the opportunity for it to be such an influential part of an agency, and to learn from professionals who serve the Lord is amazing!
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
My free time is usually filled with activities with Chi Alpha Campus Ministries, chit chatting with my roommates and friends, wedding planning, or game nights with my friends!
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father.” John 15:11-15 MSG God does not love us out of command, nor do we love him out of command. It is a choice and an honor. God provides joy, love, and leads by example. He calls us friends and desires relationship, what an honor!
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Chaska, Minnesota.
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University and Minot State University. I plan to graduate with a dual degree in Social Work and Human Development & Family Science in May 2021. With my degrees I would love to work in Child Protective Services (CPS).
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
From a very young age I have always been interested in adoption. However recently, I was able to connect with a family that was blessed with a child through adoption at CAS. Through these moments I have always been interested in learning more about adoption and the career aspect of it. Being allowed the opportunity to intern at CAS has been a blessing, especially, being able to connect with my faith while serving both birth mothers and adoptive families.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
In my free time I enjoy spending quality time with my family. I also love being active in nature, whether this is going for long outdoor runs, fishing, camping, or hiking, etc.
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“Never travel faster than your guardian angel can fly.” -Mother Theresa I think this quote is something that I often look to as an important reminder that if I continue to go through things too quickly that my guardian angel cannot keep up. So, it is important to slow down and take time to think through everything and let my guardian angel stay by my side.
I am originally from Chaska, Minnesota.
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending North Dakota State University and Minot State University. I plan to graduate with a dual degree in Social Work and Human Development & Family Science in May 2021. With my degrees I would love to work in Child Protective Services (CPS).
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
From a very young age I have always been interested in adoption. However recently, I was able to connect with a family that was blessed with a child through adoption at CAS. Through these moments I have always been interested in learning more about adoption and the career aspect of it. Being allowed the opportunity to intern at CAS has been a blessing, especially, being able to connect with my faith while serving both birth mothers and adoptive families.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
In my free time I enjoy spending quality time with my family. I also love being active in nature, whether this is going for long outdoor runs, fishing, camping, or hiking, etc.
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
“Never travel faster than your guardian angel can fly.” -Mother Theresa I think this quote is something that I often look to as an important reminder that if I continue to go through things too quickly that my guardian angel cannot keep up. So, it is important to slow down and take time to think through everything and let my guardian angel stay by my side.
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Annandale, MN.
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending Minnesota State University Moorhead. I plan to graduate with a Social Work degree in December! With my degree I hope to work with child protection services.
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
I think adoption is a beautiful thing! So having an opportunity to work with an agency that changes lives through adoption was a blessing. It is truly Gods work!
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
In my free time I like to be active and spend time with my friends. We usually have game nights or movie nights.
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” This is a very common verse, but I think it is an important reminder that we are not in control of our lives, God has a plan for each of us!
We are currently accepting applications for spring interns, both in West Fargo and Bismarck. Contact our office for more information.
I am originally from Annandale, MN.
Where are you going to school and what are you planning to pursue upon graduating?
I am currently attending Minnesota State University Moorhead. I plan to graduate with a Social Work degree in December! With my degree I hope to work with child protection services.
What drew you to adoption and interning with CAS?
I think adoption is a beautiful thing! So having an opportunity to work with an agency that changes lives through adoption was a blessing. It is truly Gods work!
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
In my free time I like to be active and spend time with my friends. We usually have game nights or movie nights.
Can you share a favorite quote or something that inspires you?
Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” This is a very common verse, but I think it is an important reminder that we are not in control of our lives, God has a plan for each of us!
We are currently accepting applications for spring interns, both in West Fargo and Bismarck. Contact our office for more information.
Per state licensing requirements, our COVID-19 preparedness plan is available to all staff, volunteers, and clients. Following the ND Smart Restart guidelines for the two office locations, we are currently open and serving clients remotely as well as in person when health screening questions have been asked and with social distancing, hand washing, and other preventative measures.
| CAS Covid_19_plan.pdf |
CAS family By: Cambria Larson
A connection was made. A nearby county was working on placing an eighteen month-old and I knew the foster parents. They were doing what they could to support the biological family, working towards reunification, but it was looking unlikely. Tina took a call with the county social worker and foster mom, but within a week or so, an extended family member was identified as the best option for the sweet little guy's placement.
Shortly after, though, we got a call from that county social worker. There was a sibling group of 4 who had been awaiting placement. Did we have any couples interested in adopting older children or siblings?
These are the moments we work for. Answered prayers of the agency, of waiting couples, of foster parents, of children who want a forever home....
Don't get me wrong. This journey was long and the process was tough. The waiting family and foster parents did not agree on everything along the way. The county required different steps than possibly what CAS would have. Despite all of it, this forever family is together and happy.
Christian Adoption Services has not focused on foster-adoption. Though we collaborate with the foster care system and county offices, we have primarily served clients in the infant adoption process. Whether or not you feel called to pursue foster care in this season, we are all instructed to care for the widow and orphan. Whether or not you think you "have what it takes" to welcome an older child into your home, there are many ways you can support families who do. What might it look like for you?
A connection was made. A nearby county was working on placing an eighteen month-old and I knew the foster parents. They were doing what they could to support the biological family, working towards reunification, but it was looking unlikely. Tina took a call with the county social worker and foster mom, but within a week or so, an extended family member was identified as the best option for the sweet little guy's placement.
Shortly after, though, we got a call from that county social worker. There was a sibling group of 4 who had been awaiting placement. Did we have any couples interested in adopting older children or siblings?
These are the moments we work for. Answered prayers of the agency, of waiting couples, of foster parents, of children who want a forever home....
Don't get me wrong. This journey was long and the process was tough. The waiting family and foster parents did not agree on everything along the way. The county required different steps than possibly what CAS would have. Despite all of it, this forever family is together and happy.
Christian Adoption Services has not focused on foster-adoption. Though we collaborate with the foster care system and county offices, we have primarily served clients in the infant adoption process. Whether or not you feel called to pursue foster care in this season, we are all instructed to care for the widow and orphan. Whether or not you think you "have what it takes" to welcome an older child into your home, there are many ways you can support families who do. What might it look like for you?
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27
By Jean Nasers
Link to Full Newsletter
Link to Full Newsletter
There is no typical or “cookie cutter” situation of those who face an unintended pregnancy, and this is why it is vital that we provide education in as many areas as possible in our communities.
It has been a privilege to see firsthand how simply educating people makes a difference in our ability to change lives. From our presentations, individuals are given the opportunity to see how many unintended pregnancies end in abortion verse adoption, who are the faces of adoption (birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive parents), and what adoption truly entails. After being presented with these facts, they are prompted to challenge their professed thoughts and opinions on the complex issues that surround a woman’s “right to choose.” This is extremely vital because it is only in the personal conversion of hearts and minds that we as an agency are able to persevere in the work God has given us of building forever families through adoption.
We are called to be children of the light. To produce every kind of goodness, righteousness, and truth (Ephesians 5:9). By supporting us in entering our schools, pregnancy centers, clinics, and churches to provide education on adoption, you are ensuring that hundreds of people are being given the opportunity to know, understand, and possibly consider this beautiful, life affirming choice.
History has shown that it often only takes a few people to change the world. At Christian Adoption Services, we are greatly motivated to change lives and make a difference. We are blessed to be supported by our community and ask that you consider supporting us in our mission of providing education on adoption.
First and foremost, we humbly ask for your prayers, for this is delicate and sometimes trying work. Second, we ask you to consider any personal or professional connections you may have that would benefit from receiving any adoption education (i.e. church groups, schools, community centers). Third, that you consider directly financially supporting our education efforts through a one time or monthly donation. All of our education programing is funded completely by donors and we need your support in order to continue providing this service to our community.
It has been a privilege to see firsthand how simply educating people makes a difference in our ability to change lives. From our presentations, individuals are given the opportunity to see how many unintended pregnancies end in abortion verse adoption, who are the faces of adoption (birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive parents), and what adoption truly entails. After being presented with these facts, they are prompted to challenge their professed thoughts and opinions on the complex issues that surround a woman’s “right to choose.” This is extremely vital because it is only in the personal conversion of hearts and minds that we as an agency are able to persevere in the work God has given us of building forever families through adoption.
We are called to be children of the light. To produce every kind of goodness, righteousness, and truth (Ephesians 5:9). By supporting us in entering our schools, pregnancy centers, clinics, and churches to provide education on adoption, you are ensuring that hundreds of people are being given the opportunity to know, understand, and possibly consider this beautiful, life affirming choice.
History has shown that it often only takes a few people to change the world. At Christian Adoption Services, we are greatly motivated to change lives and make a difference. We are blessed to be supported by our community and ask that you consider supporting us in our mission of providing education on adoption.
First and foremost, we humbly ask for your prayers, for this is delicate and sometimes trying work. Second, we ask you to consider any personal or professional connections you may have that would benefit from receiving any adoption education (i.e. church groups, schools, community centers). Third, that you consider directly financially supporting our education efforts through a one time or monthly donation. All of our education programing is funded completely by donors and we need your support in order to continue providing this service to our community.
By: Jean Nasers
About a month ago my husband and I found ourselves browsing the television trying to decide what to watch. We came across American Idol and decided to watch. Shortly after starting, a beautiful red headed young woman named Amber auditioned. She was thirty-eight weeks pregnancy and looked absolutely stunning. The judges immediately commented on her being pregnant. Amber launched confidently into her journey of coming to the discussion of choosing adoption for her daughter, stating “if I’m not ready to be a mom, why would I put her through that?” For her audition she performed “Trust in Me” by Etta James. It gave both my husband and I goosebumps, and I may have teared up a bit. Amber’s voice is such a beautiful gift. A classic, rich tone that we rarely have the opportunity to hear these days.
I was so moved by this performance because her maturity and confidence in her decisions were evident. She understood that she was not “giving up” her child or “taking the easy way out,” but she was putting her daughter’s needs first. As someone who is constantly told that adoption is seen as something for those who do not love their child or as something that should not even be discuss, it was refreshing to see a modern story of loving sacrifice and a truly selfless choice broadcasted in such a public arena. It sometimes feels and appears that we are doing an upward battle promoting “the other choice” in today’s culture. It can seem hopeless sometimes, but then you see a story like Amber’s. A story of a woman who was broken and found her inner strength to make a life affirming decision for her daughter and gave a family the opportunity to have a child. What a positive and courageous choice!
The first performance that Amber gave on American Idol after her daughter was born was “Rise Up” by Andra Day. She had a remarkable and stunning performance, filled with emotion and passion.
She did make it though to the top 40 on American Idol but sadly did not make it to the top 20 (Final Performance). I hope that she continues to pursue her dream of being a performer and share her beautiful gift and story with the world. I know that my husband and I have become big fans and hope to see her succeed!
About a month ago my husband and I found ourselves browsing the television trying to decide what to watch. We came across American Idol and decided to watch. Shortly after starting, a beautiful red headed young woman named Amber auditioned. She was thirty-eight weeks pregnancy and looked absolutely stunning. The judges immediately commented on her being pregnant. Amber launched confidently into her journey of coming to the discussion of choosing adoption for her daughter, stating “if I’m not ready to be a mom, why would I put her through that?” For her audition she performed “Trust in Me” by Etta James. It gave both my husband and I goosebumps, and I may have teared up a bit. Amber’s voice is such a beautiful gift. A classic, rich tone that we rarely have the opportunity to hear these days.
I was so moved by this performance because her maturity and confidence in her decisions were evident. She understood that she was not “giving up” her child or “taking the easy way out,” but she was putting her daughter’s needs first. As someone who is constantly told that adoption is seen as something for those who do not love their child or as something that should not even be discuss, it was refreshing to see a modern story of loving sacrifice and a truly selfless choice broadcasted in such a public arena. It sometimes feels and appears that we are doing an upward battle promoting “the other choice” in today’s culture. It can seem hopeless sometimes, but then you see a story like Amber’s. A story of a woman who was broken and found her inner strength to make a life affirming decision for her daughter and gave a family the opportunity to have a child. What a positive and courageous choice!
The first performance that Amber gave on American Idol after her daughter was born was “Rise Up” by Andra Day. She had a remarkable and stunning performance, filled with emotion and passion.
She did make it though to the top 40 on American Idol but sadly did not make it to the top 20 (Final Performance). I hope that she continues to pursue her dream of being a performer and share her beautiful gift and story with the world. I know that my husband and I have become big fans and hope to see her succeed!
Hearing the Stories of Birth Parents on Brave Love
This is part of a previous interview with a birth mom. One thing the social workers are often asked by prospective couples is how the expectant parents choose the family, or what things stand out to them when looking at a profile book or reading letters. It's different for every expectant parent, but here is what one birth mom said when reflecting on her experience....
What drew me to them... I wanted *Ethan to grow up in a similar way as our other kids. Seeing their pictures and reading their story probably 100 times just to make sure there wasn’t something I missed or that stuck out that didn’t feel right. Every time I read it I got a little more reassurance and felt some kind of connection to them. I had shared with Mike the link to take his time to see if any of the couples stood out to him. I had picked my top ones and he had then picked his 3. We had not shared with each other who we liked until one day at the same time we shared with each other and Jason, Alexa, and Carson (their son) were at the top of both our lists! I liked that Carson was the same age as my other son. The things they initially shared in their story about Carson spending time with dad learning things, as well as time with mom cooking, etc were similar to how I wanted him to be: well rounded in that way like my other kids. Upon meeting them for the first time, they were easy to talk to. Alexa reminded me of Mike, being more outspoken, and Jason reminded me more of myself, being maybe more shy/conservative in a way. We also found we have a lot of similar interests! There was some connection I felt with them right away. I also really liked how they had been through [an adoption] before and the openness they had with not just Carson’s parents but that his grandparents were in contact as well. Not one day has gone by that I have regretted picking them!
PS When we FaceTime or get together Carson and my son are like 2 peas in a pod and kind of like long lost friends in some weird way. They talk to each other right away and had done that from the first time they talked/met. It’s like another way God is reassuring me that this was how it was meant to be.
*Names changed for confidentiality
PS When we FaceTime or get together Carson and my son are like 2 peas in a pod and kind of like long lost friends in some weird way. They talk to each other right away and had done that from the first time they talked/met. It’s like another way God is reassuring me that this was how it was meant to be.
*Names changed for confidentiality
CAS
Working with expectant parents who want to make a life-affirming decision. Preparing couples to grow their family through domestic infant adoption.
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