SPAFA

I just returned home from a support group for adoptive families in Charlotte with an organization called SPAFA (Southern Piedmont Adoptive Families of America). They meet monthly and I go sporadically, depending on the speaker's topic. Tonight, they had a pediatrician, who specializes in international adoption and is an adoptive parent himself, speak about possible developmental delays. I didn't really learn anything new but he did have some good resources to check out. He had a book listed that I actually do not have (I thought I had them all!). The speaker was so timely because I have a consultation with the pediatrician I hope to use later this week.

But, the best part of these meetings are always at the beginning. Adoptive families who have recently returned with their children show off their children and talk about their experience. Tonight included two couples from China and one who had adopted domestically from California. It is always so great to see the babies. And the parents always get a little weepy telling their story. But, after a crazy busy last couple of weeks, it was so uplifting to see these families home. I know it will be my turn soon!