Unpredictable

Just as pregnancy is unpredictable, so is adoption. The problem is with adoption, since we do have some options (domestic, International, different countries, when we start the process....) it leads us to believe that we have more control over the process than we actually do. And so when we fall into this pitfall, God is compelled to remind us of the truth..He is always the only one in control.

We were on vacation with my sister for the past few days and when I returned I got an email from our agency updating us on the progress of the Korea program. It contained lots of great info about how the program is going. We were specifically asked not to share much information on our blogs and BBs. However I think the stuff that I am about to share with you would be considered general knowledge to anyone interested in the Korea program.

The wait time from when Korea receives home studies to when we should expect a referral has increased (Duh!) Last summer it was about 2 months (we passed that on 7/28). It is now 6 months or MORE. Here are some reasons they are suggesting for that increase...

1 "Korean Governmental regulations require adoption agencies to seek a domestic adoptive home for all children placed for adoption for the first five months of the child’s life. Traditionally, SWS has been in the forefront of placing children domestically. Of the four agencies authorized by the Korean Government to place children for adoption, SWS has traditionally been the most successful placing children domestically.

2 There has been an increase in the number of birth mothers choosing to parent as a single parent, and therefore a slight decline in the number choosing to place their child for adoption.

3 SWS has reported that increased methods of birth control and termination of pregnancy have in part, contributed to fewer birth mothers placing their children for adoption."

What dose all of this mean for us....more waiting. And more changing of expectations. At this point, I do not expect to have a baby home by the end of this year. If we are average (ha!) we may expect a referral around Nov. and that would mean baby coming home around Feb.

They ended their update to us with this..
"As you know, all adoption, both domestic and international is unpredictable. Nonetheless, the Korea program remains the most predictable among all of our international programs. We know that the increased wait time has caught many families off guard and has resulted in many of you saying that you are increasingly anxious. We understand that you have had to shift your expectations regarding time frames and we will continue to keep you informed about any changes that may effect you and your family."

Ignorance is NOT bliss. It is much better to know and make plans based on realistic expectations. Ultimately knowing of course this process is still "unpredictable".