I adopted a newborn almost 24 years ago, and when she grew up and moved away, I was devastated. I had two kids before her, they were 13 and 14 when she was born.
I found myself as an empty nester, but all I really ever wanted to be was a parent. So about 2 1/2 years ago, I started on the path to adopting from foster care. I have a large house, so I adopted a sibling group with special needs. My friends were skeptical, but this has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I told my 23 year old that I was not trying to replace her, but it is a testament to her that I wanted to adopt again.
It is not always easy, but it is always worth it. I have a very supportive network of family and friends, and I live in a small town that has been supportive all along the way.
This is what I tell my kids: There is nothing wrong with you. Everyone has their own strengths and challenges in life. Because we are all different, we can all be each other’s teacher.
People say I am an angel, or a saint. No. I am doing exactly what I want to do. I think I am getting more out of this than the kids are. It gives me a purpose.