[jennlk]

First, thank you all again for the warm welcome! I'm excited to have found a great group to help us through this time.

Second, since we were just matched and everything is still so new, we've been wary of telling people. Our friends and family have watched us go through 2 failed foster placements and seen our hearts broken over three precious children. We don't want to get their hopes up, but we can't do this alone. So, we decided to tell our immediate family and just a couple of family friends, all of whom have been very suppotive of this match.

My question is, for those that have had open adoptions, if and when did you introduce the Bmom to the family? Our bmom seems very cautious, but open to us growing our relationship. Our dd's b-day is coming up in 6 weeks and dh and I have thought about inviting bmom to the party. We'd leave it up to her to decide, but I don't want to overwhelm her either. Is that too soon to introduce her to everyone we know? I know I would be overwhelmed, but we also want her to feel welcome and part of the family because we already view her as extended family. I know that sounds idealistic, but she's made it clear too that she wants that kind of relationship. Oh, and we've already told everyone that if she does come to not bombard her with questions and treat her like a anyone else. Ok, now I'm just rambling, but any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!