Mohlers

HOORAY!! We're putting our inquiry in the mail TODAY for our 2nd adoption with Abrazo!

I'm glad this topic has resurfaced. I must have missed it when we joined the Abrazo family almost 2 years ago. I share some experiences and feelings with each of you. I, too, think of us as a couple being infertile, not just the spouse with the infertility diagnosis. Male factor infertility is a phrase I'm reading just today because of these posts. "Aspermia" was the only word I had for my husband's diagnosis--only because I took a peek at his records as the doctor was making notes! Looking back, I think the doctor didn't know how to help us cope. He told us of the infertility diagnosis over the phone and simply said there was nothing we could do about it. He said nothing else and offered no other services. In dealing with the diagnosis, I think we did well in spite of the little knowledge we had about it. I don't know if coping techniques of infertility vary because of gender, or simply by the individual and/or couple. Or if they vary much as all. Regardless, we have accepted it, though will never forget it. I completely agree that things happen for a reason, this one being our baby boy!

As some of you may have known, my husband was stationed at Keesler Air Force Base at Biloxi, MS when Hurricane Katrina hit. The three of us sheltered on base for five days. I just wanted to let you know that God is listening to your prayers...we can feel your prayers! We are all safe and back in Texas with our parents for awhile. Our prayers also go out to those who have been through this or have loved ones who have.

We had the same fears you have about being a military couple, Michelle & Mike. My husband is in the Air Force and we were afraid that birthparents wouldn't take interest in us once they knew this. Some birthparents may not choose you because of that, some may think it's a great opportunity to place their child with a military couple, some may not mind either way. Your child will find you! We attended the August 2004 orientation and our son was placed in our home three weeks later! I get excited when I hear of people getting ready to attend Abrazo's orientation--it's an inspiring and informative weekend. And it's the point of a new beginning. Best of luck on your new adventure!

Welcome, Rosalie! I have found the Abrazo Forum to be a wonderful place to connect with the Abrazo Family, and a safe place to post thoughts, questions and advice. To Lisa: I love the new picture on YOUR avatar!

Thanks to each of you for sharing your stories, it's nice to get different perspectives. For inquiring minds, I have a wonerful boss who is allowing me to keep my position, but with part-time hours. So, while I work, my husband will be home with Aydin, and I can come home early to spend the rest of the day with him. Thank you, again. This has been a struggle within myself and I sincerely appreciate you taking your time to help me figure this out.

I have just started back to work this week--four weeks after placement (the company that I work for did not offer any maternity leave). I can't get the thought out of my mind of how much I want to stay home with our new son. My husband supports me with this, but I am weary because I feel like I will have "failed" as an employee. Still, my priorities have changed now. Part of me feels like I can be a working mom, the other feels like I'm cheating my son, my husband (who works the midnight shift so I may work during the day) and myself by not being home. I wonder if any of you can relate, or have advice.