November 1, 2011
Start an Adoption Blog
Blogging is an activity that allows people to share their perspectives in a unique format on the Web. A blog is usually very personal, which makes it the perfect platform for posting reflections and photos on everything you do this month (and beyond, if you choose). Maybe your blog will be dedicated to raising awareness of an adoption topic that's important to your family or it can be a simple digital scrapbook of sorts. It's free to make a basic blog via a variety of websites, such as Blogger, Tumblr, Posterous, and Wordpress. All you'll need is an e-mail and a clever blog title. Take today to brainstorm a name for the blog and try to get everyone involved in thinking of things to post to the blog every day this month.
My Adoption Blog
I started a personal adoption blog to keep my friends and family updated on our adoption. I figured a web page that outlined the process was easier than constantly explaining it on the phone. What I didn't expect was the network of other adopting mothers that I would encounter. And they have been a Godsend. I no longer feel like I'm going through this journey alone, because I can read about other people's experiences, joys, and frustrations. It is so lovely when I get comments from a mother who can relate to what I'm sharing.
I have also found that it's a great medium on which to raise awareness about adoption and the state of orphans in the world today. Even better, I can spread the word on how everyone, not just adopting parents, can make a difference through various projects and organizations.
I try to reach beyond the standard “here's why we're adopting” and “here is what we need to do next” posts. I look for stories to share that show people coming home with their newest family member. I try to share news about adoption issues or links to resources. You don't need to be a technical whiz to add fun visual elements or features to your blog. Services like Shabby Blog or The Cutest Blog on the Block offer free backgrounds, headers, and even design tutorials.
It's been amazing to see so many friends, and sometimes strangers, “following” my blog. I had no idea so many people were interested in or supportive of our journey. And who knows, maybe my blog will inspire someone else to start the adoption process? Other blogs have inspired me when I needed encouragement in this (sometimes difficult) process.
Just a word of caution: if you're still in the process of adopting, like me, be sure to follow your agency's policies regarding sharing information on the web.
Lindsay H
