Hello!

SmittyJr · #1 (**permalink**) 06-07-2007, 07:43 AM

Hi ladies. I can't believe my progression throughout the SK Boards: TTC Baby #1, TTC 30 Something, IUI, IVF, now Adoption. It's been such a journey.

I feel completely called to adopt, and yet, have never felt more clueless!

The IVF process seems like a breeze compared to Adoption.

Just saying hello and looking for any insights on starting points. I've looked at the Information sticky above but looking for your personal thoughts on where to start.

Thanks girls!

theluvof2moms · #2 (**permalink**) 06-07-2007, 09:07 AM

Hi Teece,

Sorry to hear about your recent negative.

I know it is crazy how we progress through these boards. I went along pretty much the same route you did.

I think your in the right place now we have someone going through each possible program with adoption right now.

My DP and I decided to go through international adoption (Vietnam). Domestic adoption was never an option for us but I think if we did it again we would probably go with domestic adoption or actually foster with the possibility of adoption but we'll see right now I need to get number one home.

I would start by contacting agencies in your area. If you know anyone who has adopted see who they used and what they thought about that agency. Most agencies offer an information session or you can set up a meeting to talk to them about the programs they offer. (No pressure either you go meet and talk and leave they don't try and sign you up right away or anything like that)

I think we have two other ladies in Ohio so they might be able to offer some information to you.

If you have any specific questions about international adoption feel free to ask me.

Welcome and I look forward to getting to know you and helping support you through the journey.

SmittyJr · #3 (**permalink**) 06-07-2007, 11:14 AM

Thanks for the welcome, K.

I definitely want to use the friendly referral route. We've already met a few local people that have adopted international and domestic.

I originally thought international adoption was my preference, but something is directing my to domestic. Hmm...

We have a follow-up IVF appt. on 6/26 and I think due to my poor stim response, a second round will not be a wise investment. It's just getting my DH to warm-up to adoption (he's almost there).

Thanks again for the typical warm SK welcome!

And, congrats on completing your paperwork!

on the next steps (I'm still learning those!)

amberl10 · #4 (**permalink**) 06-07-2007, 11:37 AM

We did one IVF cycle and one FET cycle which failed and we've been on the waiting list for 5 months and I still say adoption is 100 times easier then IVF was. IVF took a huge emotional drain on my body. I still have good days and bad days with adoption but it's a lot easier. My advice is to do a lot of research, decide if you want to do international or domestic and then decide on an agency. Get friends input, find out agencies reputation. Weigh the pros and cons for international vs. domestic. We chose domestic due to the cost different, the length of travel time, the cost of travel, age of child.

mildlydelirious · #5 (**permalink**) 06-07-2007, 11:53 AM

Teece!

I know it can seem pretty overwhelming to start, but just take it one thing at a time and you'll be holding that baby in no time!

The first step is kinda hard. You have to decide which type of adoption you really want to do. Follow your heart. Don't compromise on what you really need and want. That is part of what makes this step kinda hard. You have to search your heart thoroughly.

But it is essential. Adoption is hard work, you want to be working toward what you really want.

We decided to go the fost/adopt route. Because we also wanted to foster as well as adopt. And because we had already spent over $75,000 on TTC. Hopefully one of these precious children that come my way will find this to be their permanent home soon. If not now, then it will be later.

Wishing you much luck Teece. Hopefully DH will come on board soon.

~m

SmittyJr · #6 (**permalink**) 06-07-2007, 01:18 PM

Thanks girls! I'm still up and down from my

.

I love your input, I'm definitely see patience will need to be a strong virtue and not jump into anything.

brookeinpa · #7 (**permalink**) 06-08-2007, 01:44 PM

Teece,
Welcome! I used to frequent this board a lot before we adopted my DD. I have made my way through the SK boards as well - you can read my history in my signature! I started with TTC#1 and 20 something, then Injectables and IUI, then IVF, then adoption. Just when we thought we were done, I ended up on the pregnancy boards. It was quite a journey.

The best advice I can give you is ask lots and lots of questions and talk to everyone you can about adoption. Each person has such a different experience to share.

Wishing you all the best!
Brooke