[Hopeful4baby2]

Hi, we are starting PRIDE classes and are entering the foster/adopt journey to grow our family. We have one bio son (2yrs) old and are interested in foster/adopt babies. I would love to hear from adoptive parents about your experience -- how did you decide to go this route rather than a private agency? have you researched the potential health (general and mental) effects of drug exposure in utero? what has your experience been like? I very much appreciate your sharing!

[momof9wantingmore]

We have adopted 3 children from the foster care system and right now we have an infant that we are hoping to be able to adopt.
All of our children came to us as foster children with reunification plans. When RU was not successful we were asked if we wanted to become the adoption resource.
Our first foster placement ended of being our first adoption, they were 1 and 2 when placed and approx. 2.5 and 3.5 when the adoption was final. Our third dd was placed at birth and was adopted at 2.5. Our current foster infant has been here since 6 days now 4 months old and we are now the adoption resource, but it is still early in the case so we are cautiously hopeful.
All of our children were drug and alcohol exposed, our ds is now 8 and has some behavior issues and developmental issues, but he is still a joy. Our youngest dd has medical issues related to her drug exposure but is improving greatly as she grows older.
Our middle dd seems to have gotten lucky as doesn't seem to have any issues and is such a sweetheart. i can honestly say these children have changed my life and the way I think about things. I wouldn't change it for the world.