Heather and I have been texting back and forth lately for a few reasons. One, we are both writing for adoption.com/ adoption.org and it is amazing. What a blessing it is for the both of us. I don’t know which one it is more rewarding for!! But secondly, we are talking about our 2nd annual camping trip (which is this coming weekend!!!) Last year was our first year doing it and it was an incredible trip! You can check out my post about it here. This year, my parents are coming too. I cannot wait to share with you all what this year brings. Until then, check out Heather’s post below! Then check back next week for an update (hopefully from both of us!) 

As I was thinking about next weekend, I was thinking about the unity of Jackson’s family and birth family. Next weekend, we are going camping together. Jackson, his parents, his grandparents. My three children and myself. My mom. My sister, brother in law, and nieces. More family members of mine will stop by throughout the weekend as well.

This is not just a fun filled family weekend. It’s more than creating awesome memories for ourselves and for our children. It is a bonding experience between two families brought together by a special little boy named Jackson. Jackson might not yet understand how he has unified two families, but one day he will. In the meantime, I hope that our families continue to bond and make memories to last a lifetime.

As I was reminiscing on my journey as a birth mother, I realized how Important it has been to understand my purpose in Jackson’s life. I do not know where I would be on that journey without the unity I have with Jackson and his family, especially his parents. At times when I battled with my own doubts and worries about being his birth mom, I distanced myself from them – and it only made everything worse. They have reminded me multiple times how important I am. They have reminded me that they wanted to maintain a relationship. They reminded me I was loved by them. This journey is not about me, but I am grateful that we share the bond we have and they helped me mature in my identity as a birth mom. Without their reassurance, I may have stayed distant and miserable.

During our camping trip last year, Jessica brought up the idea for this blog and I am so happy she brought it to life. Not only will Jackson be able to one day read all of this in amazement, but in the meantime – all the people who are connected to him get to read about his journey as well.

His story touches the hearts of more than just his loved ones. The other day my coworker told me she started to read this blog for the first time, and she was overwhelmed with tears because it touched her heart. My two friends that I saw at a festival this week told me they cry every time they read a new blog post. I have been told many times by multiple people that this blog is an amazing account of what open adoption is.

I think we are doing something right!