Friday, April 4, 2008

Saying Yes




"It's What You Say Yes To That Determines Your Life"

Over the 18 months or so that I was either researching adoption or going through the process, I had some inspirational and encouraging quotes on sticky notes around my desk and computer. They are all mostly still there. One of my favorites is above.

How different is my life today since saying Yes to international adoption. I could truly not imagine life now without Cameron. A friend of mine asked me recently if I really felt like a Mom yet. I didn't even hesitate answering Yes to his question. I remember reading on one of the message boards that some Moms felt like it took 6 months to feel like you aren't babysitting someone else's child and I can remember thinking that I hope it doesn't take me that long. I can honestly say that it did not, not even close. Now, I didn't feel like a Mom immediately and I don't know exactly when it happened. It's like falling in love; you can't pinpoint exactly when it happened but you just realize one day that it has happened.

I also remember, early on when I first started talking about my plans to close friends and family, a friend of mine told me that I had no fear. Now, this is someone who has known me since 3rd grade. I remember thinking later that it wasn't that I don't have fear. I just try to live my life despite sometimes being afraid. I try to push through the fear and do things anyway and make decisions based on my faith and the path that I feel God has chosen for me. I don't want to get to the later years of my life and have regrets. And most elder adults will tell you that they regret more the things they did not do more so than the things they did do. I am so glad I pushed through the fear and said Yes. I now have an amazing son.

Cameron continues to do well. He seems to have adjusted to his school well. I am very happy with the daycare so far. He is getting EI (Early Intervention) and PT (Physical Therapy) and OT (Occupational Therapy) to help get him caught up developmentally. He's almost 14 months old. He is much more mobile now, even though he's not walking yet or crawling for that matter. He just doesn't seem to like being on his hands and knees. But he scoots and rolls to get around the room. His legs are strong and he is walking with someone holding his hands. So, I think it won't be long before he walks on his own. He is eating mostly table foods now and will eat most everything you give him. And I know I've said it before, but he is a BIG boy. Everyone comments about how big he is and they all seem amazed he is not closer to 2 years of age. And believe me, my back and wrists agree!