Birth mother interview

We got news last Wednesday that our birth mother interview was to be the next day at 2pm, much sooner than I had anticipated--a good thing!  I was expecting to have to drop Erick off with our facilitator and wait 3 or 4 hours for it to be finished; however our attorney said I could go with them to the PGN building where the interview would be conducted.  Several moms have run into the birth moms in the parking lot, so I was hopeful of that.  Amazingly, I saw her on the way into the interview and got to talk to her and take photos afterward!  It was awesome to be able to meet her.  She seemed happy/content to meet us, but not overly emotional one way or the other toward Erick or me.  She is 28, brought her 10 year-old son with her, and has  7 and 4 year-old girls at home.  Pat and I would still like to meet her again when the adoption is final to ask more personal questions, if she would be willing.

This interview was the birth mom, Alba's,  last chance to either ask for Erick back or sign off for good.  Earlier this summer there were a few children actually taken back from the adoptive families and returned to the orphanage or birth mom.  There was an enormous amount of press regarding these interviews, as there was apparently harassment, coersion, and just alot of negativity toward the birth moms in general.  You can see why we've all been anxious about this interview.  Thankfully, the hype and harassment has calmed down alot and I feel like they are finally just trying to wrap up the remaining adoptions.

For us, the day was a good experience all around.  My prayer and praise was Philippians 4:4 and you probably may know it, but I just want to write it.

Rejoice in the Lord always.  I will say it again:  Rejoice!!  Let your gentleness be evident to all.  The Lord is near.   Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your request to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your mind in Christ Jesus.