Maybe We're Crazy?

Chris and I have applied to do something that several people have not been in favor of.  I've heard a lot of interesting comments about it, such as "I don't think that's a good idea." or "Why would you want to do that?" or "I don't think you should do that." 

What is this terrible decision we're considering?  And have discussed off and on for several years?  Adopting a child.  It's never been a secret that we would have loved to have more children.  I was pregnant two years ago and had a miscarriage, which was difficult for us.  After that, we took medical steps to ensure I would not get pregnant again.  I have had three c-sections, which is a lot.  And while my doctor said I could have a fourth if I wanted to, we don't want another baby.  That, however, doesn't mean we don't want another child. 

We have been working with the people at Reece's Rainbow to begin the process of adopting a little girl.  We have one specifically in mind, but I am not going to discuss that child on my blog at this point in the process.  Suffice it to say that she is under five years old, and she has Down Syndrome. 

It seems that everyone has an opinion on this topic, which really sort of has surprised me.  It's mostly surprised me because people have been overwhelmingly negative about it, with few exceptions.  I think, and I can only assume, the people we've told want to make sure we *know* what we're getting ourselves into.  And while I appreciate that, I would like to think that Chris and I would be good parents for this child.  It goes without saying that we have had extensive discussions about it, and we feel ready for the challenges we would face.  Certainly nothing is set in stone, but we are excited about the possibilities!