Adoption is a love story that takes courage. It is also a daily practice that builds trust through breakfast, baths, bandages, and bedtime stories. Co-parenting, even when it begins as friendship, is careful work. You take small steps. You keep your promises. You show up on time. You learn that children do not need perfect plans. They need consistent people.
We set simple routines. I picked Daniel up for Saturday soccer and Sunday pancakes. I learned the art of packing snacks that do not end up all over the car. I kept a drawer at Althea’s place with spare shirts and a toolkit for wobbly furniture and toy repairs. We wrote down schedules and stayed kind when schedules changed. We spoke to each other with respect, especially when we were tired.
The Picnic That Named the Future
One bright Sunday in Metropolitan Park, we spread a blanket and watched Daniel chase a soccer ball down a gentle slope. He returned with two small flowers, one for each of us. He handed them out with ceremonial care.
Continue reading…
