[LynMaria]

We had taken in two beautiful foster infants...both girls...and several elementary aged children before we were blessed with our now 3yo little girl. We fostered her since she was 6 weeks old and now we are in the process of adopting her. When the others left us...I cried and cried and thought I would never overcome the departures. I love them all. Little did I know though, God had a plan for us. She is the light of our lives. And just recently we were matched with a 3yo little boy in NYC..we are in Arkansas. I hope to bring him home very soon. My advice...if your heart can stand it...that is the possibility of the child leaving you, open your home to foster children, as well. In most states, if the child remains in your care for 18 months, then you have the first rights to adoption if that is what you choose. Babies for adoption are diificult to find because foster families don't let them go if they become available for adoption. I have several friends who never intended to adopt ...that is until their foster child became available! I am not at all suggesting you go into foster care to adopt....in fostercare, it is the goal to assist in the child returning home...to nurture the birth family's relationship to that child. In many cases, it is beautiful to witness that happening...and if that just can't happen...well, just know God has a plan. Toughen your heart, open your home and savor the rewards!! My thoughts are with you.....Best of luck.