Stretch Mark Mama

Below is my complete cyber-interview with Laura Christianson, author of the Exploring Adoption blog and of two excellent books: The Adoption Decision and The Adoption Network. If you would like a chance to win a signed copy of The Adoption Decision, be sure to leave a comment at the giveaway post! Stick around to read my ramblings on adoption, follow our journey to China for our first adopted...

[Part 10 of my interview with Laura Christianson, author of The Adoption Decision. Be sure to sign up for the giveaway of her book, happening at the end of this week!] Stretch Mark Mama: Tell me about your other book, The Adoption Network. Laura Christianson: This book is a handbook for people interested in starting an adoption support community for adoptive parents, birth parents, adopted...

[Part 9 of my interview with Laura Christianson, author of The Adoption Decision. Be sure to sign up for the giveaway of her book, happening at the end of this week!] Stretch Mark Mama: What are some of your favorite lines to use when answering the nib-nosy questions about adoption? Laura Christianson: When people find out we have adopted, they assume we adopted internationally....

It doesn't get much easier than this. Chop a couple veggies, dump, and go. This soup is wheat-free and meat-free. Go ahead. Spend 10 minutes on a pot of dinner. I dare you! Spicy Black And Red Bean Soup 1 1/2 cups chopped onion 1 1/4 cups sliced carrot 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 cups chicken broth 16 ounces frozen corn 1 can (16 oz) red beans or kidney beans, drained 1 can (15 oz) black beans,...

[Part 8 of my interview with Laura Christianson, author of The Adoption Decision. Be sure to sign up for the giveaway of her book, happening at the end of this week!] Stretch Mark Mama: Adoption adds an extra layer of complexity to family life. How has this been true as you’ve raised your kids? Laura Christianson: Openness in adoption certainly adds several layers of complexity. In...

[Part 7 of my interview with Laura Christianson, author of The Adoption Decision. Be sure to sign up for the giveaway of her book, happening at the end of this week!] Stretch Mark Mama: Do you carry around copies of your books? Laura Christianson: I usually have a couple in the trunk of my car, and in my handbag, I carry postcards that display images of my book covers. A week ago, I met a...

[Part 6 of my interview with Laura Christianson, author of The Adoption Decision. Be sure to sign up for the giveaway of her book, happening at the end of this week!] Stretch Mark Mama: What books helped you make the adoption decision? Laura Christianson: Keep in mind that my sons are 15 and 12, so it’s been a while since I’ve adopted! My three favorites were: Secret Thoughts...