A Perosnal Note

By Brian L. Baker

Benjamin Franklin once said “He that raises a large family does, indeed, while he lives to observe them, stand a broader mark for sorrow; but then he stands a broader mark for pleasure too.”

For those who have come to know me, they discover very quickly that my family is extremely important. Even while serving in Jefferson City, I will drive home extra-nights just to be at concerts, awards ceremonies, and other once-in-a-lifetime events.

This past week, amidst discussions of illegal immigration, teacher salaries, and Aquila, I completed an effort that will impact at least one life far longer than the issues we debate today. Kristen and I completed the adoption of our seven-month old daughter, Addison Briana Baker.

It truly is one of the most amazing adventures of our family.

One year ago we were approached about a situation where a mother was pregnant and was in a situation where she could not care for the child. We were asked if we would consider adopting the child and taking her into our family.

After some prayer we embarked on faith. For months we communicated with the mother and kept in contact regarding the pregnancy and health of the baby. We prepared our hearts for the good and the bad. Our family prayers focused on simply avoiding any broken hearts.

On September 11, 2007 Addison Briana was born. On September 13, 2007 she was delivered to our home. In October of 2007 the 17th Circuit Court terminated the rights of the birth-parents.

Then the waiting game began. Missouri law requires a six-month waiting period while the adopting family is reviewed…and a home-study is done.

On April 11, 2008 we appeared before Judge Jacqueline Cook and we were named as the legal parents of Addison Briana Baker. Our entire family, parents, grand-parents, great grand-parents, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and cousins attended the court hearing.

We are pleased to announce that our family has grown. Benjamin Franklin is right…while there is always a chance that a large family makes a broader mark for sorrow, it gives you a broader mark for pleasure as well. Addison was worth the risk, the wait, and the love. She is a part of our family and the love we share with her is as if we created her ourselves.

We are so thankful to our church, our friends, and our family for their support in this process. The kind words of area leaders and citizens have been over-whelming. We are thankful for such a supportive community.

As I end my service in the Missouri House, I am excited about the blessings that have been provided to my family. This weekend, as my family celebrated, I cannot help but believe that there are greater issues than the debates of the day. May we never forget that the arguments of today will fade away, but the love of children lasts forever!

Kristen, Kaylinn, Grant, Addison, and I thank you for allowing us to serve the 123rd District as a family. We are grateful for such a wonderful home.