5 Ways to Remain Thankful During the Wait

Holidays are hard. Especially when you’re not in the place you want to be. If you’re in the waiting phase of your adoption journey, the holidays can be extra hard. Children are everywhere, family is curious about your adoption status, stress is high and you just want a baby! Here are a few ways to distract yourself and stay focused on the beauty of the holidays:

1. Serve at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen. Play bingo or music at a nursing home. Organize a toy drive at your office, or adopt a family through your church. There are lots of ways to help others less fortunate during the holidays, and it will take your mind off your own concerns.
2. Plan a splurge. Choose a day during the holidays just for you. Schedule a couple’s massage, an overnight trip to a local B & B, or just a quiet dinner out. Make time for yourselves to enjoy each other and remember what made you fall in love in the first place.
3. Plan time with family (siblings, cousins) without their children so you can spend quality time with them as adults. Reconnecting can be extra special this time of year.
4. If spending a lot of time with family is stressful for one or both of you, decide ahead of time how long you will stay before you go. Decide on a gesture or signal so you know when your partner is feeling the need to leave.
5. Consider a non-traditional way to spend the holiday. Plan that trip to Italy or go camping for the weekend. Go out to dinner with friends instead of spending all the time with the whole extended family. Great vacation deals at resorts and on cruises are available this time of year. Then plan a visit with your parents after the holiday.

“There is a very special Birth Mother out there for every adopting family, and when you’re holding your baby in your arms you will know why you had to wait for her specifically.”
            ~ Danielle Stevens, ANLC Client Services Liaison Supervisor

Written by Jason Granillo