The Zen of Adoption

We’ve been waiting officially for 10 months today. A blink of the eye in the greater scheme of things. When we applied with our agency in March 2007 it was estimated to be a 12 - 18 month wait until referral. When we submitted our dossier in October it looked more like an estimated 18 months - 2 year wait until referral. This of course was based on current wait times, which is only a small piece of the picture.

As of this month families who have received referrals have been waiting for 30.5 months. There is talk that our wait will possibly reach 3 - 4yrs. There is talk that this is extremely optimistic. (Some people are preparing for 5+ years.) Our agency said that China doesn’t want the wait to reach 3 years. It likely will reach and surpass 3 years, but they never said it wouldn’t reach 3 years, they just said that they didn’t want it to reach 3 years.

At this point, we have no idea how long our wait will be, there is always hope that things could speed up, and the of course the possibility that things could slow down further.  Right now, we are just trying to live life, prepare as much as we can and take things in stride.

I love the Olympics. The world on display, the competition, the the fun, the idea that for a few weeks everyone can just get along and play. I’ve particularly enjoyed seeing the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. I’ve looked forward to the local interest pieces broadcast between events, seeing these glimpses of China reminds me that we will someday go there and meet the newest member of our family.

I’ve also been very curious about how China will be viewed by the rest of the world after they open their doors and attempt to prove that they are making positive changes. Controversies still swirl regarding China’s treatment of Tibet and subsequent silencing of dissidents, the ages of some of China’s gymnasts, whether the air quality was safe, and the list goes on and on. I can’t help but think that we’re looking for what we want to find… some indication that China is still the oppressive communist country we love to lothe, or perhaps reassurance that China isn’t an emerging world power.  Opinions abound on the real impact these games will have on their image; some say not much has changed, others say everything has.

What I find so significant is that China after centuries of isolationism seems to care what the rest of the world thinks. They truly are stepping into the world spotlight and in doing so took some major risks.  I hope it pays off. China has an opportunity to foster better relations worldwide and that is a positive step politically, and more importantly a positive step for the people of China!

Alex started 1st grade today! A day late due to Hurricane Fay, but after an extra day of summer, the school year is officially underway.  Our first day of school tradition of is to head to our local diner for a hearty breakfast.

Alex, 1st day of school breakfast 2008