| Unless someone has experienced the entire adoption | | | | about the birth country. |
| process firsthand, no one can truly appreciate what is | | | | An adoption scrapbook is similar to a baby brag |
| involved in this long haul. Some couples know right | | | | book, only it reflects more on the journey, not the |
| from the start that they will adopt. Others however | | | | end result. It is much like a pregnancy scrapbook. You |
| don't begin the application process until after years of | | | | want to include milestones, victories and |
| disappointment. Either way, the end result - a | | | | disappointments. Any parent of adult children knows |
| beautiful child - makes the journey all worthwhile. | | | | the timeline from diapers to graduation goes far too |
| The gift of a loving family is an immeasurable reward | | | | quickly. And while you are convinced you'll remember |
| to treasure; but can you think of a more precious | | | | every detail about the adoption process, the truth is |
| material gift to give you child than the entire "birth | | | | you simply can't remember it all. |
| process" documented in the form of a scrapbook? | | | | The homecoming will be the most memorable event |
| Once he/she is old enough to appreciate it, this scrap | | | | in the entire adoption process. The day you've been |
| book will be examined time and time again. Start with | | | | waiting for - in many cases, waiting for years, will |
| a heart-felt letter of how much you deeply desired | | | | finally come to fruition. It will be a banner celebration |
| to grow your family; write about the anticipation and | | | | - marked by friends and family, balloons and signage |
| the prayers as you waited, and waited some more. | | | | and most of all - lots of joy. Be sure to capture this |
| Detail accounts of the application process, the | | | | joyous occasion with countless photos. Not that I |
| background check, and the home visit. Mark your | | | | needed to tell any proud parent to remember to |
| shopping trips for bedroom furniture and a new | | | | take photos! |
| wardrobe with photos of the occasions. If it's an | | | | The welcome home celebration will be the final |
| international adoption, do a section in your scrapbook | | | | chapter to your Adoption Scrapbook. What may |
| on the country of origin. You may want to celebrate | | | | have started out as anticipation filled frustration will |
| the heritage of your child so add thorough detail | | | | be completed with pure bliss. Memorialize this event! |