moving forward

Over the past few months Tom and I have talked about getting back on the adopting horse, but truly aren't anxious to do that. We did meet with Suzanne, our social worker, because our home-study was up for its one-year review. Long story short - we have decided to table the adoption for now. Tom and I both want to feel we are contributing to society in a positive way and are seeking volunteer opportunities, particularly with children. Since deciding this, I have already signed up to help kids do their homework after school at the library. I have to go through an interview, orientation and background check, but all of that is already in motion. I also put a phone call into Minneapolis PAL (www.minneapolispal.org), an organization I heard about a year or 2 ago through the police department building good relations between inner-city youth and the police. As a volunteer I could do anything from helping with transportation to chaperoning a camping trip, with the intent of being a good role model and mentor. I have plenty to do maintaining my own home and complain about not having enough time, I'm hoping the rewards from the volunteer work with balance it all out.