International Adoption
One family's wonderful gift through international adoption
The decision to adopt was never a difficult one for Kate and John, now the proud parents of 22-month-old Ivan. But their choice of domestic adoption was quickly put to the wayside, as the two realized that international adoption was for them. During the final trip to Russia, Kate and John spent their first Christmas with Ivan—and realized just how much reason they had to celebrate.
From Russia with Love
When Kate and John began considering adoption as an option for their future family, a domestic placement was what they had in mind—until an AAI program director led them down the path they would take. Today, the couple is happily adjusting to life with a lively, bouncing little boy, always learning more about his Russian culture, and treasuring the friendship found in other internationally-minded adoptive parents.
A Perfect Fit
Although adoption had never been discussed in depth by Kate and John, Kate says that upon their discovery of the inability to have biological children, adoption was turned to with no hesitation. “It took about one day to decide [to adopt], and we knew it was the next step we would take,” says Kate. The couple had a few friends who had adopted domestically, and John says they had originally liked the idea. “We started out domestic, until we went to an adoption introductory meeting,” he says. “AAI’s director of the Russian program was there, and we told her we wanted domestic. She opened our eyes to the idea, and after a few weeks, it was settled.” A few of the previously unknown characteristics of international adoption were what drew him in, adds John. “International adoptions typically have more structure, and I’m an engineer, so I like order! And for me, the process was smoother.”
Reassurance in Detail
A few adoption agencies were considered, but the welcoming demeanor of AAI representatives made the couple feel comfortable with their process and choices. “I was always invited to the meetings,” said John, “and before our home study was even finished, they [AAI] treated us like customers.” After receiving a referral with photos and medical information, the couple was ready to embark across the world.
Quality Time
Traveling out of the country was nothing new for Kate or John, but the level of excitement prior to this trip—and the prospect of meeting their future son—certainly was. “It was really incredible,” says Kate. After the couple’s arrival at Kotlas, the area housing the orphanage, Kate says she and John were able to spend more time with Ivan than they had expected.
A Heartwarming Place
At the orphanage, the couple found comfort in the loving care the children received. “When the caregivers walked into the room, the kids would light up,” noted John. “And the director was nice to talk to. He seemed happy to see us, happy we were going through the process to adopt one of the children.”
A Season of Gifts
The anxious wait for a court date proved nerve-wracking for Kate and John, but less than three months later, the couple returned to Russia to bring home their 14-month-old son. While the two were still recuperating from their international flight, a knock came at the door. “There was the head teacher, holding Ivan!” said Kate. “He was dressed in warm clothes, and she smiled and then handed him to us. I thought maybe there would be some type of ceremony or something, but she just gave him to us!” she recalls with a laugh. Despite the cold, the new family wasted no time touring the country and taking plenty of family photos. And on December 25—“It was our first [family] Christmas together—we saw Santa Claus, Christmas trees and people in festive hats walking around Moscow,” said Kate. “We also had dinner with the other [AAI] couples that night.” After returning home with Ivan, Kate and John spent January 7—the day the Russians celebrate Christmas—with the wonderful gift they had been given!
Bonding Ties
To ensure Ivan knows Kate and John as his parents, the two have been spending ample time with their new little boy. “We spend lots of time holding him, and he’s definitely adapted to us,” says John. “He’ll run up and give Kate a hug, and he gives me kisses.” And in honor of his heritage, Kate and John kept his given Russian name as Ivan’s new middle name—Valery.
New Friends, New Experiences
In July, Kate, John, and Ivan took part in a very American tradition—a summertime picnic. At the picnic, the trio spent time with other families who had adopted from Russia in the same region as they did. With plans to gather and have their children grow up knowing one another, the AAI couples are overjoyed at what their new children bring to life. “Ivan makes our lives more fun, and gives us something to look forward to every day,” says John. “I don’t work as many hours now as I used to. Come 5 o’clock, I’m going home to spend time with Ivan.”
For More Information
For more information on adopting from Russia, please visit AAI’s page on Russia Adoption or call 616.667.0921.
