[hilzim]

My husband and I have three biological children and are compelled to look into adoption to expand our family. We have been talking about this for the past two months and are getting frustrated. We have been talking to many people and can not decide which way to go. We like the thought about going through the state to help kids here and it would also be financially easier for us but when we talk to people about state kids they say they can really bring problems into your house becuase of all the baggage they carry. That is why we are also looking at Ethiopia where the children are suffering loss but don't have quite so many problems. There have got to be good kids out there in our state. We are thinking about adopting one or possibly two (siblings) in the 0-6 age range. We also wonder if going through the state is better than going through AAI which we have heard wonderful things about. Can you help us?

[Awaiting]

Hi there. I am currently working with AAI and have been since April. I can only say good things so far about them. If you like more info you can Private message me. I am doing it through Wa state though. We have a current mathc with a 7 year old boy but are awaiting the committies decision.
Feel free to ask me anything. I will help you in whatever way I can.
Brandy

[Awaiting]

AAI also does Wa state and Ore adoptions as well as foriegn countries.

[sheree72]

I feel really lucky because, my husband and I are a foster adopt home with a bio 6 year old, weve been very blessed and luck enouph to recieve a beautiful 3 month old little girl. She is the sweetest thing. Termination papers have been filed and we just pray that nothing goes wrong. Its still nerving but its the price we feel we have to pay when funds are not available for private adoption. We just hope everything goes well.

[fm22]

Sheree, I am in Washington Region 3 and have 2 boys 4 and 7. They are great, my youngest has some issues but my oldest not many. With the State you just need to be clear what you want. However you chose, I hope your family is blessed soon.

[Bug-n-Bears-Mommy]

For us it just seemed that we didn't really even think about adopting outside the country. Although foster kids come with "baggage"...the state provides many resources that are available long after the adoption papers are signed. Although we do have 2 infants (8 1/2 months and 6 months)...both were born with chemical exposure. BUT, they have been given the best of medical and developmental treatment. They are thriving.

Now, 6 month old's mother was also in the system (14 yrs old) with baby. She has been off and on her whole life, and there are issues there. Primarily because HER mother seems to get on the ball just long enough to get her back...then it is back to the same old same. I really believe there are other issues we are not aware of.

Anyway, it has been a wonderful experience for us. I do realize that from county to county things can differ. We are in Clark. Best of luck to you and your family. No matter which you choose, there is no describing the feeling in your heart!

[motherteacher05]

Hello my name is Megan and I am in Region 2 in Wa state. I would be willing to talk one on one with you about the ins and outs of state adoptions... my hubby and I were foster parents for 4 years, and in the last 4 years have adopted 4 children (non-siblings) 3 were state and this last one (only 2 months old) is a private adoption non-agency. We have LOTS of experience, are still good friends with a couple of our old social workers, and are knowledgeable about reactive attachment disorder--- which I am sorry to say can come with ANY adoption even an infant one in some cases... Also I myself am adopted! LOL Please e-mail me privately to talk gerkingl@walla2.com Megan