About Julia
About me........... I was raised by 2 loving parents, along with my 6 siblings near the village of Miniota, MB, Canada. To this day, the Assiniboine River flows through my soul. I won life’s lottery the day I was placed in my parent’s arms. It was only in adulthood that I learnt what unearned privilege meant. After I married my husband Bryan, together we decided to adopt internationally. I had an overwhelming desire to give an orphan a forever home. It was a leap of faith that took us to China 4 times and a miracle that my son's came home.
Miniota family farm
People said, " we were lucky to adopt." Trust me, luck had little to do with it. It was endless paperwork, interviews and references. My house was spotless only when the social worker came to visit. Her home study uncovered many ghosts in the family closet. Truthfully, I had no clue how my grandparents disciplined my father!
As well, everyone from here to China still has a copy of my birth certificate. Looking back, buying shares in Purolator would have been a good investment. One bonus was becoming good friends with the notary at the Canada Service Centre. Would I do it again? Yes, in a heartbeat.
Family
Daughters
Sons
Julia and Bryan
Our older children..........
Jordan and his wife Nicoleen and 2 sons lives in Brandon, Manitoba and is the co-owner of Contour Construction.
Jillian and her husband Sean and their son and daughter make the ocean and sunshine of Victoria, British Columbia their home. Since finishing university, Jillian has been teaching voice lessons and freelance writing.
Aubrie and her daughter live in Brandon MB. Aubrie has a lifelong passion for learning and is completing a doctorate in philosophy.
Matthew and his partner Erika live in Winnipeg, MB. Matthew graduated from University of Manitoba and now works for Canada Post. Matthew is passionate about human rights and equality.
Brittany studied at the University of Winnipeg and now teaches grade 5 in Brandon MB. She has a love for children, sports and music.
Katelynn, her husband Temur and son live in Kamloops BC. A graduate of Minot State University she has a Masters in Speach Language Pathology. With her outgoing positive personality, she is the family cheerleader.
Phillip graduated from Vincent Massey High School in Brandon MB and now works for a landscaping firm. Phillip has a kind and caring personality.
Kai is an apprentice carpenter. With his outgoing personality and passion for the outdoors he is always surrounded by friends.
Jayden is now 15 years old. Jayden curls, plays guitar and loves debate club. Jayden is the quiet, kind dependable brother.
Chase is 9 years old. The youngest but loudest! With Chase's busy personality the house is always entertained.
Then we have Molly, Brittany's cherished Shih Tzu - Dachshund that is very much part of the family. She's the cutest, most well behaved dog in Brandon!
China 2010