Portland Can't Even.

12/17/16

The last few weeks have been a rush of work, holiday preparation, and weather. 

At the end of last month, we had our final home study interview here at our house. At this one she asked us both about religion and about parenting philosophies. She also asked me a few brief questions regarding the bankruptcy in my recent past, and how that happened.

It was easier to talk about parenting than religion. We have talked a lot about parenting between ourselves. So that part felt organic and there weren't any moments that felt awkward. On the other hand, talking about religion and spirituality was more of a challenge, since we are both atheist.

We pointed out our holiday and family traditions, and hopefully that gave her something to work with. From here, she will write the home study, and it will hopefully be available for our approval by the end of January. Then we will submit an introduction letter, a "family book", and pay another chunk to enter the pool of waiting adoptive families.

There has been a lot of snow lately, which is unusual for this area. In general, we might get one dusting a year, and then its gone. But as a matter of fact, it wasn't much snow at all, yet it was icy, and  over several days. In fact it is snowing lightly as I write this!

Due to the fact that Portland can't really deal with inclement weather, the one and a half inch snowfall wreaked havoc on the transportation infrastructure. There were people stranded all over the city; abandoning their cars, children trapped in cold school buses.....

I feel gratitude due to the fact that I was able to cycle to work. It was simple and safe, and I live close by. K was off during this time as well, so neither of us had to worry about travel.

On Friday I had my Sister and her four adult sons over for a holiday dinner. It was nice to have all of us together again. there were moments of awkwardness. My family has been through a lot, and the wear sometimes shows. but it was good all in all.

Christmas is this coming weekend, and I'm looking forward to spending time with K and our closest friends at the Coast.