My husband and I became licensed in Aug 2001. The first placement we accepted was a 4 month old boy in Apr 2002. He was returned to his bmom after 6 weeks. Giving him up was THE hardest thing I've ever had to do in my life. I worried about him and prayed for him daily. We have contact with him and his mom and they're doing fine
In Jul 2002, we got a call for a newborn. We picked up our beautiful, healthy baby girl from the hospital. Her adoption was final in Mar 2003. She is the light of our lives.
We struggled with the decision to do foster care or private adoption. We had heard the "horror" stories, but luckily we also knew people who had positive experiences. I don't mean to "sugar coat" foster care. I know that ours was not a "typical" experience. Just know that there are "risks" involved with any decision. You have to do what feels right in your heart.
Good luck in whatever road you choose!