This week I’ve decided to write a few posts about how to make it through the wait between accepting your referral and traveling to adopt your child. When I realized that this time last year I was deep in the midst of that waiting cycle, it brought back so many memories. My memories are a little blurred due to all the new memories that I’ve been given since we met Ella, but I completely remember the emotions behind waiting. There were times I was calm and times I was a raving lunatic who was going to start walking (and swimming) to Viet Nam. I completely understand the stresses and heartache that go along with having a child on the other side of the world who you can’t hold yet and all you need is to get that travel date!

Those months of waiting; although excruciating, can be approached as a time to prepare yourself as mom or dad. One of the best things you can do for yourself and your new child is to take care of yourself during this time. If you will be a first time parent, lugging around an infant or carrying a twenty five pound toddler on your hip can cause a great deal of physical strain. When you strap on your new baby carrier or need to carry a stroller, baby and diaper bag up a flight of stairs at the same time, you will be so grateful that you took the time to prepare yourself for this new physical adventure that you’re about to embark on.

Here are some tips to get in top mommy/daddy shape:

• 
  Sleep! Everyone who has children will tell you to get as much sleep as possible now, before your baby comes home, and it is an excellent piece of advice. Try to get as much sleep as possible to help rejuvenate your body.
• 
  
  
  Do some kind of relaxation exercises. Try yoga, tai chi or just simple mediation in your own home. Giving your mind and body a break and focusing on the present will help you feel calmer and more relaxed as you face another day of waiting not so patiently by the phone.
• 
  
  
  Strength train. If you belong to a gym, frequent the weight machines, take a weight training class or hire a personal trainer for a few sessions. If you like to work out at home, rent a few fitness dvds from the library and find one that you enjoy. Do some research online and focus on exercises to increase strength in your arms and back (two of the main areas that will be used constantly with a new child.)
• 
  
  
  Eat your fruits and veggies. Slowly incorporating more healthy foods into your diet will result in long lasting habits. Not only will you feel better, but you will pass on your healthy eating habits to your new child once they’re home.

photo credit

More Reading:
Baby Center Donations
Recommended Vaccinations for Viet Nam Travel
Recommended Medications for Viet Nam Travel


For information/instructions on how to subscribe FREE to your favorite AdoptionBlogs, please visit this link.