I'm Coming Home!

I've made it most of the way home from Tennessee. I flew out of Memphis into Minneapolis. I've got a 3 hour layover here before I catch my plane to Sioux Falls. Steve's bringing all the kids to pick me up. I'm so glad I could be with Al and Jen this past week. I hope I was helpful enough to be worth bringing along. The birthmom signed the paperwork to terminate her parental right and we had a quick lunch with her and an adoption specialist. I think unless you've been there, it's hard to imagine how hard it is for the birthmom to see and hold her baby for possibly the last time. Even though the Pickards plan on returning for visits, the birthmom will still be missing that small bundle in her arms. We know that Kassandra will be in a great home with wonderful parents, but please remember the birthmom in your prayers as she is grieving the loss of her baby. Before we left, Jen gave the birthmom a photo album with pictures of Kassandra and room for lots more pictures that Jen will send as she grows. At the hospital, Al and Jen gave the birthmom another very special gift. They had a Black Hills gold locket engraved with the baby's name and put a picture of her inside. They gave it to the birthmom to remember her little one and the very special gift that she entrusted to them. As much as we are rejoicing right now, someone else is hurting. Jen is a very special adoptive mom to be so considerate and empathetic about the birthmom's feelings. I'm proud to call her my friend!