[sherryk]

Just like each state being so different in their requirements regarding having a foster care license, so are the differences in the type of adoption. Research is the key to both of these issues. Find out what type of adoption you are interested in (international, independent, fost/adopt) and the requirements from the agency/lawyer/facilitator. Adoption is a very complex process - one that takes months. You will receive a stack of paperwork to fill out along with a "to do" list required from your adoption coordinator. The best thing to do is check them off one by one with the realization that it won't happen overnight. A pregnancy takes nine months, why should an adoption be any quicker? Don't expect that...if it happens, count your blessings! The hard part of the "waiting stage" is that you usually don't have a "due date" for awhile, or if at all. A birthmother adoption is the exception, of course, because she will have an "expected date of arrival," but, other adoptions (international and fost/adopt) don't have this luxery. I can say that our wait was exactly nine months!! Amazing. Hang in there everyone! Find out the requirements necessary (in your state and the type of adoption) and check them off one by one!

Blessings to all of you,
sherryk
moderator