[USMCCOUPLE]

My name is Sefi. My hubby Anthony and I have undergone IF treatments for 3 years approximately and have I think exhausted ourselves physically and emotionally on that end. So we are now ready to seriously begin to undergo our adoption journey.

If you can suggest anything that would be awesome. Right now we are just kind of looking for the most economical method since my hubby is in the military our income is not grand.

We have set up an appointment with the local State Adoption Agency which is holding an introductory seminar for hopeful adoptive parents.

We are also considering international adoption since I think we can kind of get around alot of the costs because my mom's sis in law is a lawyer in the caribbean willing to help us do our leg work and paper work down there. So there is a lot to conisder.

We are young, both 25. So we really want a child that is no older than 3 or 4, we would prefer a newborn but if it is not possible that is okay.

My hubby is Italian and I am Dominican, and I have been told that this is a good thing in trying to adopt. Is that true and why?

Okay this is a long posting but I am just excited and can't wait to start our new journey to being parents!

Thanks!

[jedatu]

Congrats on starting the process!

The first thing I would do is make a list of priorities (Cost, age of child, ethinicity, travel etc.). If you really want an infant than that is what I would pursue. If you truly are open to an older child then that is wonderful too. Just don't ask for an older child because you feel it is your only choice. The reality of adoption is if you set your age limit to 4 you most likely will not get an infant. If you say either gender is fine you will most likely get a boy. All of these options are WONDERFUL. I am not trying to start a debate of infant verses older child or one on gender . I am only saying to make sure what you say you are open to is really what you want.

Look at all the benefits available such milatary adoption benefits, the federal tax credit and state adopotion credits. See what ones you can take advantage of as this will help you know what you are able to spend on the adoption.

There are so many international programs. Start looking to see what you qualify for and also meets your needs. A good way to do this is to go to angency seminars or go to agency websites.

No one can tell you what is best for you and your husband. As far as international or domestic, you need to look into both and see what will work best for you. Follow your heart.

Countries will often give preference to couples where one person is from the countries dominant ethnic group. This normally makes the process faster not cheaper. I guessing this is why people think being from Italy and Dominican may be beneficial.

Remember, Adoption can get very expensive, but you can do it.
You have come to the right place. There are lots of people who have been in your shoes and will be able to offer lots of advice.

I wish you the best!