7. Diet/exercise. This is “do as I say and not as I do” case. ;) My goal with each adoption has been to LOSE as much weight as I would have gained if I were pregnant, so about 30 pounds. For the sake of full disclosure, I haven’t reached my goal on the first three adoptions, but I’m off to a good start with this one! Happy thoughts, happy thoughts… Anyway, especially since your time will be more limited once you have a new family member, it’s a good idea to use the wait time to get into better shape, eat healthier, and tackle other personal goals you may have for yourself. A good friend of mine is conditioning herself to become a first-time mom at the age of 50 (Hi, L!) by walking with a sack of flour in a baby carrier. Trust me – each time we’ve added a new, non-ambulatory child to our family, my back has screamed at me for a good month after the arrival. The flour-toting idea doesn’t sound like such a bad thing! :) In any case, working to make your body healthier and better able to manage the physical demands of parenting will reap many health benefits, and it can elevate your mood as a bonus! When I found myself mired in sorrow and worry during our problematic second China adoption, a good brisk walk often did wonders for me. Somehow, just being outdoors and breathing fresh air gives you a new lease on life and helps you get through a difficult day.

8. If applicable, learn your child’s language. Even if you’re adopting a baby internationally, you’ll prepare yourself for easier communication during your in-country travels and give yourself a skill that strengthens your ties to your child’s birth country. If you’re adopting a child who’s already speaking, knowing at least some language basics is absolutely essential. For more information about adoptive parent language resources, see this post.

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