[JenC]

I've sat here staring at the screen trying to figure out what exactly to say, but the short version is we are starting the homestudy update for baby #2 this week!!!

Our son Josh is 14 mo. and Ethiopian. We started the process for him in fall of 2006. Before then, I had surfed and lurked and asked questions here for literally years. Domestic adoption never felt right to me, and know I know that we were being led to him in Ethiopia. He came home 9 months ago. I usually hang out in the international forums, but not any more!

The Ethiopian program is wonderful. It was perfect for us. This time around (and this is probably our last time around), domestic makes more sense for us. It was a hard decision - a part of our hearts will always be in Ethiopia.

Josh came to us at 4 mo, so I've never had a newborn. He was up every hour for the first few weeks though, so I was kind of initiated.

I'm a little nervous about domestic - not because of failed adoptions or anything, just because it's new to me. I feel like I know a lot about international adoption, just not what to expect here.

So, needless to say, I'll be around here a lot more. Happy Mother's Day decision to me!

[JeannineW]

Welcome! We adopted from Guatemala the first time. I swore I'd never adopt domestically or from foster care. Four years later... I feel strongly we are meant to adopt from foster care this time. It's a little scary going down a new path especially one you never thought you'd go down but we must find our children where ever they are.

Good luck.

[Stormster]

We adopted domestically and my sister adopted internationally so have seen both sides and believe me both have their challenges and rewards.

I think you are starting at a good time because your kids will be so close in age!

Good luck to you!!!! And belated happy mothers day as well!

[Saya]

Hey Jen!! Congratulations!

We are also going from international to domestic. Definitely a whole new world!