I have been writing about how we experienced many unexpected emotions on our trip to adopt our son, Ben, from Ethiopia.

Another emotion that we were not prepared for before our trip to Ethiopia was that of love for the culture and people of Ethiopia, and personal dedication to giving back and trying to make even a small difference in a place we came to love in a very short time. It sounds very cliche to say that our trip was life-changing, and yet it was. Both Josh and I returned home from Ethiopia with the knowledge that we would return, and that we would have a life-long involvement with the country and people.

All of our emotions were very raw on our trip. We were overwhelmed with joy and inspired one moment, and emotionally crushed the next. Our friend who traveled with us stated on the fourth day of our trip that he was starting to feel "numb" from all of the emotional things we had seen and experienced.

So, if your adoption will be taking you on an international trip, be prepared to experience a lot of emotions you may not expect. Of course there will be the roller coaster of emotions involved with your adoption, however there are many other aspects of the trip that may impact you too.

Here are some tips:

- Remember to focus on your child. While all of the emotions and challenges of international travel can be draining and distracting, this is an extremely important time with your new child and they need as much of your time, energy and attention as you can give (and probably then some!)

- Keep hydrated. Drink lots of bottled water. You can cope with things much better when you are feeling good, and staying hydrated is super important.

- Try to sleep as much as you can. Jet lag, "traveler's stomach", a new child, being in a strange place and many other aspects of adoption travel can make sleep challenging. Taking an afternoon rest period each afternoon is a great idea, especially if you (and/or your child) is not sleeping well at night.

- Don't travel alone. I was so grateful that Josh traveled with me to Ethiopia. I don't know what I would have done without him. Having someone with you for emotional support is really important. I never would have been able to put into words all that I felt and experienced, and being able to experience it with Josh was priceless.

- Keep a journal. While it's happening it may feel like you could never forget it, but in the blur of life that is normal once you are home with a new child, it is very easy for memories and emotions to blur and dull. Keeping a journal not only helps you get out all that you are feeling, but it helps to preserve those memories as well.

What was an emotion you experienced on your adoption trip that you were unprepared for? Leave a comment and tell us about it.

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