2006 has been a year full of hope for me as far as adoption goes. For me personally, it has been a satisfying year as I have spend vast amounts of time and energy in the adoption commmunity.

Here are some highlights:

1) My blogging experience here at adoptionblogs.com has provided me with a healthy outlet to write about many of my views on adoption. A side benefit for me has been the opportunity to meet many other talented, witty and warm bloggers that I have gotten to know a bit. Their friendships have been an unexpected bonus. My readers have touched me with their thoughtful comments.

2) Having First Mom Jenna join me in blogging and knowing the valuable insights her upbeat, yet honest style provides to other first/birth moms has been a happy event for me.

3) This year has been a milestone year for me as far as becoming a writer goes as well. I completed my first book which was a very exciting and thoroughly challenging experience! I look forward to its on-line publication as an e-book.

4) My involvement with CUB (Concerned United Birthparents) has continued to evolve as I became the Secretary on their national board in 2006. The annual retreat this year was a spectacular event for me. I met some amazing new people and had some wonderful informative and enjoyable moments with them and with my old CUB friends as well.

5) 2006 was year five of my reunion and I had a brief but joyful visit with my son Chris. Our relationship continues to grow, and I trust that it will continue. I am less fearful that some dreadful event will make him dissappear again. Knowing him is the best experience ever!

6) Helping a few people with their searches and reunions has been very gratifying and I feel grateful for the opportunity to be involved in this way.

7) My writing has received some positive reception in the world. I have been honored to receive requests from several other countries to have a few articles reprinted. Knowing that my words can help others with adoption issues means a great deal to me.