The process has begun

Adoption has been in the back of my mind (and Joel's) for a while now, but until recently was not something that I just obessessed about.  That has definitely changed.  And yes, it is accurate to say that this is my new obessession.  Maybe passion is a better word.

I have researched so much that I think I'm running out of resources.  After searching the internet, talking to friends and family that have recently gone through adopting and having my parents reach out to friends/contacts, it is now time to move on to the next step.

It is time for us to meet with some agencies and attorneys to decide what would be the better option for us.  We have set up and appointment with the Executive Director of Deaconess Pregnancy and Adoption Services next Monday, 11/23/09.  We were referred to her by the daughter of a family friend who is an attorney that represents the agency.  I'm a little apprehensive about using an agency.  They are very stringent with their rules and regulations, not to mention the numerous and costly fees there are when dealing with an agency.  I guess we'll see what they have to say when we meet with them.  Joel and I had dinner with a couple who adopted at the beginning of the year.  They provided a lot of insight and seemed very enthusiastic about the availability of babies to be adopted.  It was really good to talk with them.  Thank you Kortny and Matt!

So for now, this is where we are on our journey.  It is just beginning and I'm not sure how long it will take for us to welcome a new child into our lives, but we're both very excited for the upcoming addition to our family.