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Hi Joan!
Our adopted children are not bio siblings. When we first adopted, we had a 3.5 yr old bio son. We adopted Tayte (9 m) and Karenna (23 m) in Jan 2001. Ten months later we returned to adopt Garrett (33 m). They were all adopted from baby house #1 in Almaty, Kaz. We used Building Blocks Adoption Service for all three adoptions. Three months after bringing Garrett home, I got pregnant. So we also have an infant girl. Right now our children are 6 yrs, 4.5 yrs, 4.5 yrs, 3.5 yrs, and 11 months of age - 3 boys and 2 girls.
I personally had a hard time adjusting after we adopted Tayte and Karenna. We went from one child to three children literally overnight. Top it off with Karenna's attachment issues and it made it worse. I took things day by day and we got through it. I forced myself to take all three kids out at once. We used to go grocery shopping weekly and always went to story hour at the library. We developed routines and stuck with them. After 5-6 months, we were doing so much better.
In Dec 2001, we returned to adopt Garrett. His adjustment was quite easy. He attached to me quickly. His issues had to do more with establishing authority. He learned very quickly. All the times I forced myself to manage three childern out in public at once really paid off. We seamlessly added Garrett to our family. It was quite easy - honest!! I think once you get used to three kids, you can add more children and its no big deal.
I was concerned about having a rough time again when Aneesa was born. Again, it wasn't a big deal. I'll admit - she has an easy going personality. I did have a rough delivery, but even then (after recovering with a C-section), we did fine.
Now we have 5 children 6 yrs and under. I wouldn't change a thing. If you ever adopt again, it will be a little easier because you will have a better idea of what to expect.
Let me know how things go with your daughter!
Pat
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