An Interview With Shelley McCraw

1. When did you first become interested in pursuing Adoption?
I was introduced to adoption through a close friend who adopted a son from Ethiopia in 2010. I began reading blogs of other friends who were also adopting and my eyes were opened to children in need. I had never really thought about children who were with out a mother or father. As a mother, I couldn't imagine my child not having parents to care for and love them. My heart was pricked.

2. How long have you been involved in the Adoption process?
Once my eyes were opened to children in need, I began asking God what that meant for me and my family. Quickly an opportunity to foster a two year old presented itself. We fostered for six months. When her circumstances changed and family reunification was no longer an option, we began the adoption process and finalized her adoption a few months later. A year later we adopted her biological sister.

3. What is your favourite part of Adoption?
My favorite part of adoption is the formation of family by choice. Any adoptive parent knows an adoption doesn’t just take place. It requires intentionality and pursuit by the parents. A child who has joined a family through adoption is wanted and intentionally chosen and pursued. Isn’t that what we all desire!

4. Who is your inspirational BEAUTY? (male or female)

Several people come to mind and and I can’t narrow it down to just one. They are in rough seasons of life and carry heavy loads, but do so with grace that comes from God. I am inspired by their perseverance to keep moving forward when things don’t change in the timing they had hoped.

5. Where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?

The next decade holds parenting our youngest two children through the teenage years and launching them into their next season. Beyond that, only the Lord knows, but I hope it includes some grandchildren.

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