[amyu]

I am new to this forum but I have found what I have read to be very helpful and am hoping that someone might be able to help me.

My husband and I are happily married, I have complete ovarian failure and cannot conceive naturally. So my husband and I would like to adopt, but I do not know how we are going to do it.

We have been through a couple dificult years (intensely dificult - fire, unemployment, family illness, etc.) and have grown closer and stronger through it all.

I want very badly to be a mother, but must work as we are still recovering from the events of the last few years and as my husband is only emplyed part time. Jobs are scarce in the community we live in but I am worried that we will get turned down because my husband only works part time. In part I see this as a good thing because he has more flexibility in his schedule that he can work when I am not so that we do not ever need to seek outside child care.

Also I do not know how we are going to afford the adoption as I have heard that it may cost as much as $35,000. Does anyone have any tips on establishing a reasonable budget for adoption costs or ways to supplement the expense or to save money?

Any other hints for someone just beginning would be most graciously appreciated.

Thank you.

[NorthBay04]

Have you thought about adopting through the state instead of a private adoption? In California, an adoption costs $500 or less when you go through State Adoptions. You usually start out as foster parents with the intent to adopt. It's called fost-adopt. Good luck.