Jenna's Story

I have put off writing Jenna's adoption story because just sitting here thinking about how to put it into words makes me cry. You see even if I wrote the bare details (like most of my posts) without including the emotions of it... would still make me cry. Don't get me wrong... I am super excited, elated, joyful, on cloud nine, etc. The most wonderful girl gave us - so unselfishly - what we had been praying, working and hoping for.We are forever indebted to her and we will always ALWAYS love her. Moments throughout this experience have been special, spiritual, sacred, scary, sad, exciting, nerve wrenching and joyous.

During the last part of June, Morgan emailed us an initial contact email. It happened to be the same day that we had met with another birth mom in Utah. This was confusing trying to determine which was the "right one". We emailed back and forth a little for not quite a week. Then Morgan had decided she wanted to meet us. Aaron and I drove to Nevada to meet Morgan and her family. We fell instantly in love with them. They are a family that we admire. We were in Nevada for only 24 hours because Baler Man had to get back to work. 

Forty-five minutes after we had left, we got the call that Morgan had decided to place her baby with us. I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. I was so grateful for that. It is a big decision and I didn't want to screw it up. Then we emailed more with Morgan and waited for the baby to come. I was a ball of nerves feeling like it was too good to be true and that for sure Morgan was going to change her mind. There was even a night where I kind of freaked out a little and called Morgan. She responded so kindly and so calmly. Thank you Morgan. She told me not to worry about it.

Jenna was due on July 22nd. July 14th Aaron and I met with our caseworker (who had been out of town for last two weeks - pretty much the whole time) to go over the paperwork that we were supposed to sign. Then we did some more shopping for the forthcoming baby and then met my family at the river for a little birthday boating party (for my birthday). We were on our way home from the river (10:30PM) when we got "the call" for her dad. We were still a 1/2 hour from home. We got home reloaded all of the baby gear I had prepacked and then took out of the car for the shopping trip, finished packing bags, and hurried out the door. It was 12:00am when we left our house. Eagerly hoping the 8 hour drive would go by super fast. 

Morgan's dad called at about 1:00a (our time) and said that we weren't going to make it to the birth. Turns out that Morgan had labored all day without saying anything to anyone. It wasn't until she buckled over that her parents began to wonder. She was dilated to a 8-9 when she arrived to the hospital. Jenna was born at 1:11a (their time). She was 8lb 1oz and 21 inches long - she is a dream come true.

We arrived to Nevada and spent time with Morgan and her family in the hospital. There were some real sacred moments during this time. I am very glad Morgan's parents were able to be at the birth and have that special moment with her. After Jenna was released we took her with us and spend time with Morgan and her  family for a few days. We have some great moments from that time that I will cherish forever.

Sunday the 17th, Morgan's parents had a little party for their family and close friends. Her dad held a little family counsel where feelings, tears, and goodbyes could be shared. It was a spiritual experience which I think made the next day a little easier.

A side note: on Sunday the 17th we also met with the birth father and his family. They were able to share a special moment with Jenna. My heart goes out to him and his family as well.

Monday the 18th (my birthday), was the day (after the 72 hour waiting period) Morgan could sign the papers. We were all together (not a typical set up but wouldn't trade if for the world) when the caseworker came and we all signed the papers. It was kind of a sterile experience, unlike we had imagined. Probably because of the caseworker who has turned out to be... so so. 

I admire Morgan and how much strength she has had through this. She said she received the peace that comes with the right decision. I am very grateful for that. I have cried and cried for her and feeling the sadness that she must feel along with her families' feelings. BUT she was so strong - I would have been an absolute basket case. She is my hero!

We said goodbye to Morgan on Monday night. She had given me the most precious birthday gift. I told Aaron good luck topping that :).

Currently, we are in a hotel waiting for ICPC approval (Nevada has to approve and say we can leave the state and Idaho has to approve and say we can come into the state).

I just want to say thanks to all those who have prayed and fasted for all of us. Jenna has wrapped herself around our hearts for 4EVER. We will always cherish and love her.