Monday, August 22, 2011

Love You More - a book review


Love You More by Jennifer Grant is the story of one mom’s adoption journey to her daughter Mia. It has the feeling of a memoir and is divided into three main parts: Starting the Journey, Waiting for Mia and Learning to Know. The author is vulnerable and realistic as she shares her journey and is an engaging writer. Once I started reading, it was a book I looked forward to picking up which is always a good sign!

As an adoptive mom myself, I could relate to a lot of what Jennifer wrote about even though our adoption journeys, including the countries our children came from, had many differences. Adoption brings with it many special challenges and it is a relief to know you are not alone when facing different issues.

Love You More is a book I would highly recommend to those considering adoption. It gives a realistic view of what the journey might look like, it challenges you to check your motives and it shares the many joys that may surprise you along the way. I would also recommend this book for those who are in-process or who have already adopted. It will remind you that you are not alone in your struggles. And, I would recommend this book to those who have family or friends who are adopting or have adopted. It will give you greater insight into the adoption journey and how you can support those you love who are on it.

Love You More is an inspiring and insightful read, well-written and well-worth your time.


***DISCLOSURE NOTICE: A free copy of this book was supplied to me for the purpose of review by Thomas Nelson Publishing. No monetary exchange was given. All comments and wording in this review are purely my own.

Friday, August 19, 2011

The Sappy "First Day of School" Post


The house is suddenly quiet. Today marked the beginning of a new season. The three big kids are off to school. One of the littles has started preschool.

5 - 4 = 1

One little left in the mornings to keep me company. It feels strange.

The kids are all ready for the change. Third grade, Kindergarten and even preschool are exciting adventures and my kiddos are ready. I am too. I'm excited to see what they learn, and how they grow. I'm excited to have one on one time with my little boy. I'm excited to walk with them through this next stage of life.

But.

I got a little teary as I watched the bus pull away. The first day of school always seems to bring melancholy with it. It marks the passage of time and reveals the growing up like nothing else.

It makes me want to stop time or at least slow it down. Instead the opposite seems to happen.

Come Monday, melancholy will surely move on. We will jump into our new routine full force, time will ramp to warp speed, and I will do my best to make the most of my days as they race on.