Adoption...how does one start the process?

[Tammy in Germany]

My husband and I love children...our's are just growing up to fast. We're a military family that's thinking about adoption. How do we even begin? What's the process like...our girls are 18 and 20 and they think we should do it. :D Our 10 year little man isn't so sure...so I'm just wondering about it now. :o My husband said to see what the process is like...so I'm coming to the best people I know...give me your information..please. :D Do you think I'm crazy, husband is 45 and I'm 41?:o

[hana]

I think first you have to start by searching your heart--what age do you want to adopt, from where (domestic, international), what differences can you accept or celebrate (disabilities, pre-birth conditions, race, ethnicity), do you have a gender preference, what type of agency/situation will work best for you (public, private, religious, etc.)

I don't think you're crazy at all. I have one adopted daughter, and I hope to adopt again a few years down the road (and I'm also 41). Your age may preclude adoption by some agencies (and countries, if you go international), but there are plenty of others that will consider you the perfect age. :D

Good luck as you consider taking your first steps on this jouney. :)

[Momto5]

I don't think you're too old. But then again, I'm 42 and in the process of finalizing the adoption of one of our foster children.

I agree with the previous post that you should look at all the options - domestic, international, foster, waiting children, special needs, open, closed, etc. A wonderul book to read when starting the adoption journey is Adoption Nation by Adam Pertman. The book discusses a lot of adoption issues including the types of adoption, issues relating to birth parents, etc. Pertman was a reporter so the book is easy to read.

Good luck to you on this journey. Our family has been tremendously blessed through adoption. (Like you we have biological children as well.)