We've had a very exciting year.

We certainly have noticed significant changes. As these kids get out in the public forums they have become more aware of who they are and they are able to say what they want.

The community has a responsibility for our children. We do not want our children to grow up without these adult connections.

The adoption process is a long process. Right now we have five children going through the process.

The biggest change is the kids are empowered to be a part of the process. They are making choices about families, mentors and the events that they participate in. Our children are viewed as team members and they utilize that power.

Novels by British writers are among my favorites because our family has enjoyed travel in England and because they are written with an economy of words as if they were written with a pen instead of a computer. Penelope Fitzgerald is a favorite.