Monday, July 16, 2007

Where were you 9 years ago?

Nine years ago today, I was in the hospital. I was 19 years old, and had just delivered a beautiful baby girl at about 7:30 pm. In the delivery room was my mom, and the mom I chose for my baby. I've never really talked about it in depth here, but I am a birth mom. I was stunned when I found out I was pregnant, and after seeking much wise counsel and much prayer, I chose adoption for my unborn child.

I really wanted an open adoption, and didn't really know where to start. We just prayed. When I was 3 months pregnant, God brought a family to me. The day I met them, I knew I didn't need to meet anyone else. I was carrying their baby.

They were with me throughout my pregnancy, and I bonded with them to the point that we are now like family. I got the chance to go visit her a few weeks ago, and we had so much fun just hanging out. She knows I'm her birth mom, and she met my boys last summer. We're kind of like distant relatives.

I love to share my story because usually the only things people hear are the horrible ones. We're a good one. I am so proud of my decision to give my girl a home I could not have provided her, and I'm so proud of the lady she's growing to be. I'm blessed that I get to be around to see it.

So anyway, here's her birthday card. She loves pink and bling...like someone else you know. ;)

Stamps: Baroque Motifs, Linen, Tinkabella, Magical Day
Cardstock: Regal Rose, Basic Black, Cool Caribbean, Paper Accents Pearlized White
Ink: Cool Caribbean, Colorbox Fluid Chalk Alabaster Ink, Palette Hybrid Noir
Accessories: May Arts Ribbon, Foam Mounting Tape, Stickles, Flower Bling, Corner Rounder, Paper Piercer, Ticket Corner Punch, Prismacolor Pencils & Odorless Mineral Spirits

28 comments:

Misty said...

What a super cute card! I love that Bella!
Misty

Tandra said...

What a beautiful story!! We adopted a son 18yrs ago, we know who the birth mom/dad are, but no sweet story like yours.
Lucky little girl!!!

Melissa said...

What a touching story - thank you for sharing it with us!

And what a FABULOUS card! :-)

Ticia said...

I am glad you were able to have such a happy story. And that you chose life.
I faced those decisions myself at 16. I choose to keep him but not until seriously considering the options. I'm so glad you chose what was right for that child.

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful story - and a beautiful card. TFS!

Bethany Paull said...

A very sweet card. Love the flower sequins. I'm glad to hear your happy story worked out so well.

Jody Morrow said...

I needed a kleenex alert for that one! That is a very sweet story. I am happy that you still get to see her. HUGS!

Christi Flores said...

What a great story! I am so glad that you still get to have a relationship with her.

And what a cute card!! I hope I can get this good one day. With your help I know I can! ;)

Colleen Schaan said...

I am just so impressed with your honesty. What a wonderful story to share. Thank you for sharing it with us. The card is just perfect for any nine-year old.

Lisa C. said...

So glad I clicked on your blog today. I am a birth mom too, my son will be turning 19 this August. Wow, scary thought..lol. I too have a great outcome. Loved reading your story. Card is awesome too

Sue said...

What a wonderful story. I was adopted; i didnt find out till I was almost 40. I really wish I could meet my birth mother...the fact that you stay in touch is so wonderful. I am sure it was a very difficult decision but you made the right choice. God Bless

Anonymous said...

Very sweet card! What a wonderful story -- thanks for sharing it with all of us.

AJ said...

Yea for happy endings~
Everything happens for a reason ;)

Jan Scholl said...

I too am a birth mom-my girl is 35 and my grand daughter is almost 18. I made the best decision I could considering I was in high school and basically on my own. Life goes on.............

Juliana said...

I am the aunt to two beautiful adopted girls and a SIL to a birth mom. I have seen first hand many times what a heartbreaking blessing this is.

God's blessings on you, your daughter, and her parents.

I am glad today you are at such peace, I am sure you know what a gift that is!
~Juliana

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing your story with us. So few touching.

Lorrie said...

What a sweet story! How blessed you must feel and your little girl is so lucky to know you. And what a very cute card!! Thanks for sharing your story. ~ Lorrie

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing your story with us, the peace you have about the situation is very evident. What a blessing to have it turn out so well for everyone!
Super cute card!
Sonia

Jan Hunnicutt said...

What a blessing to know your daughter is loved and in a good place. I like her birthday card too!

~Carla~ said...

Beautiful card! I think it's a wonderful thing you did 9 yrs ago. It takes a lot of faith and courage to do that! :) ((Hugs))

Paula said...

God bless you, your story touched me.

Donna Baker said...

what a touching story, I'm so glad y'all are like family now. I bet she loved her card!

Linda McClain said...

What a very sweet story. As a nurse on a mother/baby floor I've seen some lovely families come together.

Anonymous said...

I am so proud that you are my daughter!! I love you - Mom

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful, happy story- thanks for sharing it!

Charmaine (CharmWarm) said...

Such a beautiful story and a wonderful card! Just precious!

by Shelly said...

I've always been impressed with your blog and usually I feel like you "speak" to me. Today was no exception. I clicked on your blog and the first thing I saw was the birthmom poem. My mind immediately asked the question "Is she adopting too?" I then read your story.. what an amazing story.

My husband and I are currently on the waiting list for a baby. I hope we are as lucky to meet someone as nice as you and are able to connect in the way you did with your family. God Bless and thanks for sharing!

Sankari W. said...

dearest shannan,

i was so touched that you shared that story - what an amazing and courageous decision and how sweet it is that you are still part of each other's lives... i know that you are going through some intense things right now - and I just wanted you to know that I am so amazed and inspired by YOU and all that you are and do!

Sending you happy hugs
Sankari :)

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