Being a parent is such an amazing experience!

What brought you to the decision to adopt?

Plenty of time considering our options as a same sex couple and deciding that morally adoption was the way we wanted to grow our family. Meeting other adopters via friends and hearing them speak at adoption events really secured our decision.

Were there any myths about adoption that had prevented you exploring adoption previously?

Feeling that it would be different to having a birth child. Speaking to adopters and realising what was important about being a family helped us move forwards to explore adoption.

What were the positives of adopting through a small not-for-profit organisation?

Supportive culture, small group in training, amazing staff!

Why did you choose to adopt through Diagrama?

We met you at a New Family Social event which assured us you were inclusive to same sex families. Our first visit left us with a great impression and you liked us!

What was the adoption process like?

It was a journey of self discovery, exploration, learning, lots of waiting and an emotional roller-coaster! The hardest bit was the family finding and having to make decisions about little people. With Mary's help, we learned to understand how much uncertainty we could manage, to trust our instincts and trust ourselves to make decisions.

Was it what you expected?

We didn't really have any expectations, but overall it was a very positive process. The time and intensity of the process seemed suited to the importance of the 'job' we were applying for!

Were there any surprises/disappointments?

We had been considered for an early permanence placement and were all set to possibly become mummies that Monday, however after a possible family member came forwards, we had to pull out. Whilst it was a disappointment at the time; with Mary's support and advice, we knew this was the right decision. Of course, now we wouldn't change a thing!

What is the one piece of advice you would have liked before you started the process?

Get as many family members and friends involved in the training as possible. Having people in your support network who understand the process and how it is different to parent an adopted child is hugely supportive. Trying to educate well-meaning friends and family is part of the role of an adoptive parent but can sometimes be hard work! For example, you may make different parenting choices to grandparents, friends and siblings and this may leave you feeling you need to explain yourself. It's great when there are some people who just understand!

What does having an adopted child mean to you?

Everything! She is so precious. We do feel the responsibility of wanting to do our very best, to give her the very best life that we can.

How has life changed?

We have learned so much about ourselves as parents, our common values and our differences. Life is mad, busy, joyful and full of love. Our daughter is our priority.

What excites you about the future as a family?

We can't wait to be by our daughter as she grows up, spending more time exploring together, and see her building on her successes!

What would you say to other people who might be considering fostering or adoption?

Being a parent is such an amazing and fulfilling experience, challenging but a pleasure, a privilege, the best blessing/gift one can ever receive... even more so an adoptive parent - go for it!!