My Introduction to CHI

After receiving the news that our adoption agency was shutting their doors, my file was transferred to Children's House International.

I called (after hours) and spoke with a gentleman who graciously calmed me down and listened to me vent. He told me that he would have the person who would now be in charge of my file contact me first thing in the morning. She did. I spoke with Ms.Heidi  Hawkins who explained to me how the process of my file being transferred would work. She was super nice and very sympathetic of my situation. I felt a little better.

Meanwhile, it dawned on me! Children's House International had Jordy's file! You see, during the paper chase you find yourself doing a huge amount of research. You may be researching how to fill out a specific form, which leads you to a message board or Yahoo! group, which leads you to an adoptive mom's blog, which leads you to YouTube videos, and so on. During my research, I came across a video for a charming little Chinese boy, whose privacy name was Jordy. This kid was fantastic! I watched his video over and over and even showed friends and co-workers. What a star he was. I called Heidi (we are on a first name basis now) and inquired about Jordy. She said that she had great news and that Jordy has a family! Oh. Is it a good family? She assured me that he is going to have an amazing family. OK, well, I tried.

She said, "Let me ask you a question. You were inquiring about Jordy, have you thought about adopting special needs from China?" I told her that I have thought about it, and I have no concerns with it, but let me talk to Jason.

"Special Needs" sounds so scarey to most people. I mentioned that both of my grandfathers grew up in orphanages, but I didn't mention that one of my grandfathers only had one arm. I will keep it short for now and only say that he is by far the greatest man who ever walked this earth. In the end, I am the one with a special need. These kids only need what every kid deserves. They need a good home, love and to know that they matter. Why is that considered a special need?

My "Paw Paw' Maurice Garb

Above is a picture of my grandfather that lost his arm in a childhood accident. Did I mention he played on the D-line at Tulane University?