Fun at the Mall

Next we spent time with Tammy at a local mall. We weren't quite ready for an overnight visit and were just getting to know each other.

We walked past the shop windows and she pointed out things she liked. And I remember we bought her a chocolate chip cookie from one of the mall food vendors. I kept the wrapper from that cookie for many years as a momento of our first outing together.

Our First Meeting

We drove 40 minutes to Louisville from our home in Meade County, quite nervous but anxious to meet Tammy.

Our first meeting was at the foster home where Tammy was living. The foster mother and our social worker were also present.

Since it's been a number of years ago, I don't remember the exact conversation. But I do remember leaving with a distinct impression that we had just met our daughter.

The Beginning

We lived in Louisville, KY and watched "Wednesday's Child" every Wednesday on the local news. Each week a different child was featured that needed a "forever" home. Some of the children were disabled (physically and mentally) and many were older and considered "unadoptable".

I remember one little girl in particular. Her name was Melissa and she was about 11 or 12 years old. I fell in love with her. It took a little discussion but I finally convinced hubby that we should apply for this adoption program.

After months of classes, physcials and close scrutiny of our lives, we were approved for the adoption process. We decided we would consider a child (boy or girl) up to 13years old and we could work with slight disabilities. All this information was entered in their computer system and the waiting started.

Six months went by and nothing happened. I remember praying that God would intervene and bring a child into our lives.

Finally in November of 2003 we got a call about a 12 year old girl named Tammy who was available for adoption. The first step was to meet her.