[aMarylandfamily]

Either process - in-state or inter-state - is full of red tape paperwork - neither can be said to be easier or faster - each situation is unique.

I would start by calling any private agency in your area and ask outright if they handle the adoptions of the children awaiting placement in the state's foster care system ... if not them they should willingly identify who is and then call that agency and see what you learn ... then call the local/county DSS office and feel them out and determine which agency would be best for you (one example is in Maryland the two private agencies in the area (Adoptions Together and Tressler) handle the state's foster care children being placed for adoption in addition to the local DSS offices but they work much quicker as that is their only focus vs. DSS covering family problems, the removal of children, appropriate court actions determine permanency planning, foster care and whatever else is thrown their way). They will start the homestudy process which generally includes a training program/class which will enlighten you on all kinds of little details as well as major thoughts. Note this process often takes 6 months to complete (fingerprints/background checks are a major hold up) and then they advise placement of a child(ren) can take anywhere from weeks to months to even a year or more ... again depending on the needs you are willing or capable of addressing ... which can range from a child with ADHD or a child who is handicapped - physically or mentally ... to major situations. And be warned, the intial meetings are meant to be bold and up-front - this is not an easy journey - but one that you shouldn't run from either.

Two twin beds in the room are generally fine ... depending on the situation some children cannot be "roomed" together ... i.e., a child who has sexually acted out would not be appropriate placed with another child already in your home - adopted or bio - or a younger child being placed at the same time ... logistics such as those are the last to be worked out - depending on the child's needs.

This "journey" can be very trying at times but is worth it so keep asking questions and go the next step in your inquiry and see where it takes you.

(Also ... your question about insemination is not totally disgusting ... if you are contemplating that - talk with your physician and they can lead you on the proper and legal way of handling the logistics of that without putting yourself in a place of wondering if it is right or decent or all of that)