The Quinley Family

I do not have any biological children, but have always wanted to adopt. Rich has two sons (ages 10 & 14) from a previous marriage. Early on in our relationship we discussed having more children and decided when the time was right we would adopt rather than try for a biological child. We both know that it doesn’t take DNA to love a child.

The match coordinator (Jennifer Friend) at Sierra Adoption was essential in assisting us to locate the perfect fit for our family. We met Christine’s social worker at a family fair (Adoption Matching Event) where social workers “showcased” photos & bios of waiting children. Once the initial paperwork was completed, the adoption process was relatively quick and easy. Within 5 months of having her parent’s rights terminated, Christine’s adoption was finalized.

Our friends and family including our two boys were very supportive. The boys kept pressuring us to hurry up and find them a little sister. I kept friends and family updated via e-mail of our progress (in hopes to inspire others to adopt). Our extended family and community responded wonderfully! Christine is a beautiful girl with a kind heart. She is an absolute joy to be around. Family and friends have welcomed her with open arms. There is no doubt that she is part of our family. It is quite humorous when strangers ask “Where did she get those curls?” With a grin, Rich responds “She got them from me.” Both Rich and I are light skin, blonde hair, with light (blue and green) eyes. Christine has big beautiful brown eyes and curly brown hair which I style into small ringlets. She is breath-taking!

We already had family traditions established and have included Christine in them. Bedtime stories at night, Easter egg hunt, Christmas cookies for Santa and carrots for his reindeer, family Thanksgiving dinner, attending church services every weekend (Christine LOVES the music!), etc. She has really welcomed the structure and routines of our home.

Words to encourage others who are waiting: Although it seems as if you’ll never get through the mountain of pre-adoption paperwork, the wait is definitely worth it. Not once have we regretted the decision to adopt. Christine has brought more joy to our lives than we could have ever imagined.

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If you have a foster or adoption story to share, please email it to family@adoptuskids.org. We will review your story and contact you if we have questions and would like to share your story on the website. Please include your first and last name, phone number and best time to reach you.

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