1. ANNOUNCEMENT

LOOKING FOR AUTHORS TO WRITE FOUR ADOPTION BOOKS
Adoption.com is looking for four different authors to each develop an online guide to one aspect of adoption (international adoption, how to adopt, adoption parenting, and crisis pregnancy & adoption). Each guide would be about 180 pages (65,000 words), and the author would be paid $2,000. Adoption.com would retain all rights on and off the Internet, and the primary use would be to reprint on the Adoption.com websites as a free community service. Because adoption is ever-changing, and because we would integrate the content with our websites, we would retain the right to change content as needed. We would be looking for the guide to be completed by the first week in September. For more information, please contact editor@adoptionmedia. The four guides are described below:

(1) International Adoption Guide
This would cover many aspects of international adoption (the process, choosing an agency, costs, homestudies, INS, applications, preparing for a referral, filing the orphan petition, medical evaluations, travel, health issues, meeting your child, returning home, post-placement issues, U.S. citizenship, multicultural families, language barriers, institutionalized children, etc.), and country-specific information, much of which can be compiled from public-domain sources. The book would have many similar elements to the printed international adoption books "How to Adopt Internationally" or "The International Adoption Handbook".

(2) “How to Adopt” Guide
This would cover many aspects of adoption (about adoption, risks, fears, costs, marriage issues, scams, homestudies, choosing an agency, attorney or facilitator, finalizing adoption, getting background information, birthmother relationships, dear birthmother letters, finding an adoption, waiting, getting ready for your child, open vs. closed adoption, adoption ceremonies and celebrations, children with special needs, transracial/multicultural adoption, failed adoption, adopting for the second time, etc.). There would also be sections with local information for each state and other English-speaking countries (Canada, UK, Australia, etc.), and basic information on the different types of adoption (foster child, domestic infant, international, stepparent, relative, etc.). The book would have similar elements to the printed adoption books "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Adoption", "The Unofficial Guide to Adoption", "The Adoption Resource Book", and "The Complete Adoption Book". This guide will be about pre-adoption issues, as we are developing another guide for post-adoption parenting.

(3) Adoption Parenting Guide
This would cover many aspects of post-adoption parenting (post-adoption feelings, naming, family adjustments, bonding and attachments, adoption breastfeeding, older child attachment, special needs, parenting the abused child, attachment disorder, talking about adoption, blended families, where to get support, the first year, lifebooks and scrapbooks, reunion issues, birthmother relationships, school issues, family trees, open adoption, medical histories, effects of drug and alcohol, ethnic and cultural identity, prejudice and racism, international adoption language and customs, developmental issues, serious behavioral problems, disruption, hild care, wills and life insurance, adopting a second child, sibling groups, biological and adopted children, honoring birthmothers, where to find support, etc.). This book would not cover pre-adoption or “how to adopt” issues. The book would have many similar elements to printed adoption parenting books such as "Raising Adopted Children" and “Real Parents, Real Children”. It could also have parenting information and advice that is not adoption-specific, and relevant to all parents.

(4) Crisis Pregnancy & Adoption Guide
This would cover many aspects of crisis pregnancy, with an emphasis on placing a child for adoption. It would cover issues such as choosing the type of adoption (open vs. closed), relationships with adoptive parents and adopted child, finding the right adoptive parents, making an adoption plan, pregnancy, hospital and birth, grief and loss, birthfathers, reunions, unkept promises, etc. This guide would not advocate abortion. It would also have sections on post-abortion syndrome, post-adoption birthparent support, birthfathers rights, birth grandparents, and avoiding foster care (placing a child for adoption before they are removed by the state in a crisis parenting situation). The book would have many similar elements to similar to Options Magazine, located at http://www.optionsmagazine.com/optmag/index.htm , and the printed book "The Third Option”.

ADOPTIONLISTS.COM E-MAIL SUPPORT LISTS AVAILABLE
Receive answers to questions, resource ideas and caring support by joining a free Adoptionlist! Those waiting to adopt may join the Hopeful Parents adoptionlist. There are two experienced adoptive moms co-moderating this list. Meet JJ who has adopted 4 infants in 5 years. And Sherry, mom of four, that has adopted one child from foster care. Learn how they adopted their children and ask them questions about adopting. Convenient use through your e-mail box. Subscribe at http://lists.adoption.com Questions? Please contact Sabra@adoption.com.

UPCOMING EDUCATIONAL CHAT ON HOMESTUDIES
Ask Lori Fraas, LCSW, owner of Adoption Support Services of Florida, questions on domestic and international homestudies. Lori has conducted homestudies for 7 years. She will discuss how to obtain your homestudy, what to expect and how to make your homestudy a less stressful process. Please join Lori in the hosted chat room on http://www.AdoptionForums.com on Tuesday, Jun 17 at: 5 pm Pacific, 6 pm Mountain, 7 pm Central, 8 pm Eastern. If you have questions you may contact Sabra@adoption.com.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE YOUR STORY ON NATIONAL TELEVISION?
The Hallmark Channel is producing a new series on adoption, following last year's award-winning adoption series. They have asked Adoption.com to help them find heart-warming, moving or unique stories for this series. Will you be traveling to a foreign country in the next few months to adopt? Do you have a name of an adoption birth family member, but have not yet been able to find them and would like to be reunited on television? Will your upcoming adoption have a unique twist (i.e. wins, second adoption from the same birthmother, special needs, etc.)? Does your adoption include an ethnicity such as african american, hispanic or native american? Are you an adoptive parent with a disability (i.e. a deaf parent adopting a deaf child, etc.)? The Hallmark Channel is looking for stories that have yet to unfold (i.e. the reunion has not yet happened, the adoption has not yet happened, etc.). If you have a good adoption story you would like to share on national television, or if you have questions, please e-mail editor@adoptionmedia.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

2. NEW ARTICLES

The views expressed by the authors are solely their own, and for which the authors are responsible. These views do not necessarily represent the views of Adoption Week e-Magazine.

My Mother and My Mom - new article by Donna Nordone Heaney
The ten-year-old girl that sat in the judge’s chamber has grown into a mother who not only feels special but also has an enormous amount of gratitude for the life that she was given. Being adopted has always made me well aware of the fact that my parents chose me and my sister. I have always known that my life could have taken a very different path and I will always have a deep understanding and respect for my Mom and Dad and for the sacrifices that they have made during their lives for the benefit of their children. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=279

Mid-West Adoptee - new article by Paul Behmke
I had spent the first ten months of my new life in a foster home. These great would be parents were out window shopping for their son. When they found me, they were told that I had a mind of my own. But they didn't care. I was to be their new son. In fact, I was so good that four years latter they adopted a little girl as my sister. Wow!!! From a foster home to a real family life in four years. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=280

The Power of Perseverance - new article by Mardie Caldwell
This incident opened my eyes to the power of determination and over the years I have seen this persistence pay off. This is a never give up attitude that works for a number of my adoptive parents. I have had other homely prospective adoptive parents since then and I can honestly say that all people have qualities other people will find attractive as long as we are determined and to find them. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=281

Looking for Love in All the Wrong Places - new article by Sharon Milite
At age 15, I was given the freedom to hang out at the end of the street which we called "the wall." My brother just a few years older than myself had the responsibility to watch over me because the "gang" was made up of approximately 30 kids within the neighborhood of Collinwood (Cleveland) and they were in high school compared to me being in Jr. high. The world had gone mad. Racial riots in the neighborhood and at school causing alarm with my father to work another job and pull his family away from the lower class housing neighborhoods and fleeing into the suburbs, but it did not come quick enough. We were far from hoodlums but more typical teenagers, racing cars down Euclid Ave., going to the Manners Big Boy car hops on a Friday night following the school dances that everyone attended. It was the age of the innocence. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=282

Read these articles or contribute an article at http://e-magazine.adoption.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

Why pay $20 or more for Internet access? With AdoptionISP.com, you pay as low as $12.95 per month, and $3 of your monthly payment is donated to adoption causes. Adoption ISP is a reliable, full-service, nationwide Internet Service Provider (ISP). Sign up for high-speed or dial-up internet access, save money, and make a difference at http://www.AdoptionISP.com.
___________________________________________________________________

3. ADOPTION NEWS

Searchlight on Adoptions (NZ)
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/storydisplay.cfm?storyID=3505654&thesection=news&thesubsection=world

'The Lost Boys' Graduate (WA)
http://heraldnet.com/Stories/03/6/9/17056066.cfm

Mother and Daughter Reunited After 56 Years (CA)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.oaklandtribune.com/Stories/0,1413,82~1726~1444758,00.html

Lowell Pair Adopts Chinese Baby (AR)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.nwanews.com/adg/story_Arkansas.php?storyid=32269

Homeless Teens Back on Track with Metro's P.A.L.S. Program (MS)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.clarionledger.com/news/0306/09/m03.html

If any of the links to the news articles do not work, visit http://www.adoption.com/news for a list of headlines.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

4. ADOPTION BOOK CLUB

BLACK BABY, WHITE HANDS
July 15, 1968—only three months after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., a Black baby becomes the first in the history of New Mexico to be adopted by a White family. Jaiya John’s narrative flows like a soulful river—separated from his mother at birth, placed into foster care, adopted by a White family, and reunited with his biological family in adulthood—an astounding journey of personal discovery. Black Baby White Hands, a waterfall of jazz splashing over the rocks of pain, love and the honoring of family. This classic is sure to find itself well worn, stained by tears, and brushed by laughter in the lap of parents, adolescents, educators, students, and professionals.

For more information on this book, visit http://adoptionshop.com/cgi-bin/products/ADP00092.html.

Find 7,000+ other adoption products at AdoptionShop.com.

To share your favorite adoption book with others, join the Adoption Book Club on AdoptionLists.com at http://adoptionlists.com/index.php?action=lists&listname=adoptionbookclub.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

5. MEET NEW HOPEFUL ADOPTIVE PARENTS

Outdated material has been removed. Please visit ParentProfiles.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

Adoption is music to our ears...now it can be for you, too. Adoption.com's new adoption CD, "Adoption...The Songs You Love", is dedicated to everyone who has been touched by adoption in one way or another. ORDER YOUR CD! http://adoptionshop.com/cgi-bin/products/ADP00022.html



Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

6. FEATURED WAITING CHILD

Jonathan is a handsome young boy who is initially shy upon meeting new people. Once he feels comfortable with someone, he is very open and outgoing. He enjoys fishing, bowling, swimming, bicycle riding and most other outdoor activities. He likes pizza, tacos, macaroni, hot dogs, hamburgers and his favorite food is a bologne and cheese sandwich. Jonathan gets along well with his peers, but has a tendency to become upset easily if he does not get his way. He needs to be placed with his older sister Olga. Both children have a strong bond with one another. He would do well in a single or two parent family as long as it provides love, structure and nurturance.

http://photolisting.adoption.com is a free community service of Adoption.com featuring more than 1,800 children awaiting loving, permanent homes.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

7. ADOPTION BUZZ

Birthparents Discuss What They Wish Their Child's Adoptive Parents Would Say To Them: - Do You Want to Know the Truth??
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t105000.html

Foster Child Adoption Support: - Help Difficulty Adopting
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t104785.html

General Adoptive Parent Support: - Living an Adoption Life
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t104553.html

Adoptee Support: - What Would You Do?
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t105138.html

If any of the links above do not work, visit Adoption.com for direct links to these discussions.

For more online adoption discussions, visit http://www.AdoptionForums.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

8. ADOPTION GEM

9. ADOPTION SITE SPOTLIGHT

This week, our adoption spotlight is shining on: AdoptionCosts.com

If you're interested in adopting but are a bit put off by what you think it might cost or what others have said about the expenses, this site will help you put things a little more into perspective.

This site gives you costs of domestic and international adoptions. It also gives you a rough breakdown of costs and an idea of what amount of money you would be paying, depending on the type of agency you would be going through, etc.

For a list of our favorite adoption websites, visit http://adoptions.adoption.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

10. ADOPTION DESTINATIONS

InternationalAdoption.org is the internet's authoritative destination for international adoption. You will find fact sheets, adoption information, travel information, culture and heritage, maps, weather, books, currency exchange rates, periodicals, news and much more for dozens of different countries with active international adoption programs.

This week, the country of focus is Ecuador.

The "Republic of the Equator" was one of three countries that emerged from the collapse of Gran Colombia in 1830. Between 1904 and 1942, Ecuador lost territories in a series of conflicts with its neighbors. A border war with Peru that flared in 1995 was resolved in 1999.

To learn more about Ecuador's government, geography, and communication information, or its history, visit http://Ecuador.adoption.com/.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

11. JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT

When taking our 4-year-old grandson David home, we passed the Huntington Beach, CA power plant. PaPa told David to look at the steam coming out of the pipes. David looked up and very seriously stated, "That's not steam; those are clouds!" He continued saying, "Don't you know that this is a cloud making plant and that is why there were so many clouds in the sky?!?"

- Wilma Kays from San Clemente, CA

E-mail your humorous story or joke to editor@adoptionmedia.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

12. FEATURED ADOPTION PROFESSIONAL

Nightlight Christian Adoptions
Fullerton, CA
Phone: (714) 278-1020
info@nightlight.org

Nightlight Christian Adoptions is committed to providing caring and professional services to each client, recognizing their unique needs and backgrounds, while advocating for the children who need the love and stability of a family to realize their full potential.

Services: • Adoption Agencies • Adoption Attorneys • Counselors & Therapists • Home Studies • Interstate Compact Administrators • International Adoption • Support Groups for Adoptees & Birthparents

Countries: • Belarus • China • Russia • Ukraine

For more information on Nightlight Christian Adoptions, visit http://www.nightlight.org//.

Find adoption agencies, attorneys and other adoption professionals at http://directory.adoption.com.

To see your ad here, visit http://adoptiondirectory.com/upgrade.php.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

13. ADOPTIONSHOP.COM PICK

Cherished Wish Rose Quartz/Blue Lapis and Sterling Bracelet - Only $29.95

Sterling silver Cherished Wish charm on a 7” bracelet with Blue Lapis, Rose Quartz and Sterling beads. Includes this original poem: The sun is nature, warmth and light Giving life and hope and might And though it may be far away Will touch the child with every ray The heart is nurture, love and grace Lives for each smile upon your face Teaches what you need to know Makes you laugh and helps you grow For one, a wish that runs so deep Their child -- a home to safely keep Another's wish so true and bold A child to love and teach and hold The star -- the wishes of the two Heaven makes them both come true In ways both merciful and mild Their star -- the cherished wish -- the child


For more information and ordering instructions, visit http://adoptionshop.com/cgi-bin/products/ADP00045.html.

For more adoption products, visit http://adoptionshop.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

14. SOUND COUNSEL

This section is not intended for search advise. It is meant to be an advise column for people with questions concerning their feelings, interested in the opinion of someone who can relate.

Question:

I turned 18 in August, making me old enough to search for my birthparents. Knowing I am legally allowed to search for both identifying and non-identifying information, I am torn with what to do. For as long as I can remember I've said to myself, "As soon as I'm 18, I am going to search." Now that I'm at that age, I have frozen up. I am wondering if searching right now is too soon. My curiosity is boiling over. What will I gain, however, if I do wait a couple more years to search? As you can read, I am very confused. Overall, I do want to search, but don't know when the right time is. I want to thank my birthmother (and birthfather, if possible) for giving me up; they made a very difficult decision, but I am living a most blessed life. Please help. Thank you!

~ E., MI

Answer:

Elizabeth, I hate to tell you this, but you are the only one who can truly answer this question. There is no "rule of thumb" when it comes to things like this. Everyone matures at a different pace and everyone has a different perspective on what their needs are. Some people truly need to know and not knowing causes significant mental distress. Other people have no desire to search and feel that their biological parents made a decision not to be a part of their lives and they respect that.

Searching is a tough process, that is unsuccessful more times than not. It's tough mentally, emotionally, financially (in some cases), etc. I think very few, if any, people just type in a few words on a search engine and are successful. One thing that may help is the fact that even if you search for information, no one says you have to actually contact your biological parents should you be successful in your search. Maybe for you just having the information and knowing you can contact them should you want/need to, would be enough to quell your curiosity.

Just because you are now legally able to access information, doesn't mean the state you were adopted in has opened records. You may want to start with researching what your rights are specifically, before you make the decision to actually search for your biological family. You may find that the age is 21 and not 18 (i.e., the state of Illinois has closed records and you cannot participate in the state registry until the age of 21 - without parental consent). Then you won't have to worry about it for another three years (just kidding) ; )

I am not sure what your relationship is like with your adopted family; however, I always recommend for people in your position to discuss these feelings, etc. with their family. They know you the best - other than yourself, of course. Even if you do not think they will be receptive, I can promise you, they have been thinking about this for a lot longer than you have. I have said it many times before, and I will always stand behind being honest with your adopted parents.

I wish there was a cut and dry answer for your situation; however, there is a huge gray area that makes everyone's decision different. Just keep in mind that you are 18 years old, still very young. You have your whole life ahead of you to make this decision. No need to rush it just because you are not a minor anymore. You have the rest of your life to be an adult and deal with heavy decisions such as this one. Just follow your heart and it will lead you in the right direction and to the right decision.

DB

Question:

I am 18 years old and have decided to start looking for my birth parents. I was adopted from India. I have very limited resources about my birth history. I don't want my adoptive mother to know I'm doing this, because it would hurt her too much. I know the International Mission of Hope was involved. However, there is no longer an established Indian branch.

What can I do?

MT

Answer:

MT:

First, my advise would be to discuss this with your adopted parents. I know it is tough and you think it will hurt their feelings, but what you must understand is that they have been expecting you to ask since they adopted you. Trust me, they did not think they would go their entire lives without you asking questions. They have been thinking about it since day one. It is perfectly normal, and your adopted parents understand that.

I cannot stress enough how important it is to involve your adopted parents in these types of situations. It is my feeling that they would be more hurt if they found out halfway into your search, as you couldn't confide in them as your parents.

In regard to the actual search, I would be willing to bet your adopted parents could shed some light on your efforts. If you choose to discuss your search with them, ask if they have the original paperwork from the adoption. In my case, that's how I was able to find my biological mother's name, etc. They know as much as anyone about the details surrounding your adoption.

If you choose not to involve them, try speaking to someone in the corporate headquarters of the International Mission of Hope. I am not very familiar with the laws surrounding international adoptions, so I cannot comment specifically on your rights as an adoptee to your information. I assume they could inform you of this.

No matter what you choose to do, I vehemently urge you to consider involving your adopted parents. I have been there, and I know how you feel. I felt the same way. If you need more convincing, just look at the questions in this week's column from the father who not only wanted to help his son in his search, he was willing to fund the entire thing. I bet his son was nervous too. I am not saying your parents will offer to fund the endeavor; however, I'm 99% sure they'll support you.

I wish you the best in your search!

DB

To submit your questions, e-mail adoptionquestions2003@yahoo.com

In order for your questions/comments to be answered in the next week's issue, questions need to be submitted before 12 noon each Thursday.

In addition, please remember to keep your questions appropriate for Adoption Week e-Magazine; otherwise, they will not be answered or included in the next week's edition.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

15. SPEAK OUT

Terri G. Crowell: I am a recent adoptive parent and had the same problem of money. I fortunately own a home and was able to get a home equity loan for my adoption. Let me give you a few other options open to you, such as a personal loan, or if possible, you could use your credit cards by requesting checks. Maybe borrowing the money from a close friend or family member. These were some of the options my husband and I considered hope they help. Good luck. - Irene

---------------------------------

To Terri G. Crowell: There are loans, etc. Do a search on the internet for adoption loans and grants. You will have to do the research but they are out there. Regards, Kn

---------------------------------

Terri, I am an adoption social worker in Massachusetts. You may not have to go into debt to become a parent. Many people don't realize that adopting from the state department of social services in their home state is an option. There are thousands of children across the country who are waiting for loving and permanent homes. Sometimes they are infants, more often, they are toddlers or early school-age children, and then of course, there are many pre-teens and teens. All are just as deserving of a parent who will nurture them, keep them safe, and most importantly make a committment to them! And, in most cases, it doesn't cost parents anything to go throgh the process.

Contact your local social services department (they have different names in different states; in MA they are called DSS). It can't hurt to check out the option, and if you decide a waiting child isn't the way to go, you can still look for ways to finance a private adoption. Good luck!

Michelle J. David, MSW, LICSW
Director of Communty Services
Adoption Social Worker

---------------------------------

Terri- My husband and I adopted our first child after being married only one year and living in an apartment. We did a domestic adoption by retaining an attorney and placing ads. Our daughter's adoption cost about $6,000 and that included the flight to Texas from NY. There is adoption financing available and also you get an adoption tax credit of up to $10,000 for the tax year in which you finalize; that's good for 5 years. We just adopted our second child last May. We are not wealthy by any means. It is possible. Adoption.com is a good place to start to find out about financing. And there are also programs that give travel discounts to parents going to pick up their child. Good luck, and don't give up! - Lori- Long Island, NY

---------------------------------

Hi, my name is Elizabeth Perlmuter, and I am looking for both birthparents. I was born on 02/06/68 at 12:25pm at Beth Israel Hospital in Brookline, MA and adopted thru Jewish Family Services six days later. I know identifying information, that I will be happy to disclose at a later time. I can be contacted at: elizp5@yahoo.com.

---------------------------------

Hello to all. I don't even know where to begin as I have been doing research for many years now and come up with almost nothing, but here's what I know as of now. On my birth certificate, it names a hospital that I was born in and the doctor who supposedly delivered me, but upon my research, I found that the doctor stated did not ever practice in that hospital. First, I would like to know how easy it was to change birth certificates in 1967, and how would I go about finding more information about my background? Anyone have any suggestions on where to start? Thank you all for your time, and if anyone has suggestions, please e-mail me at djgeeque2001@yahoo.com.

To Speak Out and share your opinion or a comment, or to respond to a message, e-mail editor@adoptionmedia.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

16. ADOPTION ONLINE SUPPORT GROUP REVIEW

Here's a recent post from the Hopeful Parents group:

Thanks, Sherry. We did not end up meeting the birth parents. They did not show up for the meeting. Our agency tried to contact them today, but no luck. Scott and I were really disappointed. I am still pretty upset. I had a good long cry. I just don't think that our agency knows how much it hurt today. We have been waiting for two years now with our agency, and this is the first call we had gotten to meet birthparents. We were so nervous. Scott and I did not sleep good all night. I was praying all day. Our family was praying for us. Then we had to call them and tell them that they did not even show up. It is so depressing.

I am trying to cheer up. We will just keep hoping and praying, like we have been for the last 7 years.

Thanks for your support, Sherry!

Love,
Robin

To be part of this group, or one of 70+ other adoption-related online e- mail discussion groups, visit http://AdoptionLists.com, register, and join.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

17. ADOPTION POETRY

A MOTHER'S HEART

Once, I had, a Mama s weet,She'd gaze into my eyes..
She'd hold me to her breast, and rock me there..
Her soft hands, brushed away my tears, and softly stroked my cheek
As She sang to me, her voice so sweet & fair..
Then came the Day, she said Goodbye, with pure unselfish Love
She kissed me one Last Time, & softly wept..
And though my Mama's arms let Go, her memories held me close
And the Photos of her Baby Girl, she Kept
For I never left her Heart, you may have seen me, in her eyes
That Faraway, and Distant, longing Gaze..
Then God looked down,and saw in her, the Faith and Beauty there.
And His Hand began to move, in Wondrous Ways..
He brought her back, her Baby Girl, Now a Woman, Brave & Strong
I Sang to Her A melody of Love..
For I flew back, on Eagle's wings, Renewed, Restored, and Free..
I Flew back, on the White Wings, of a Dove..
Now Mama's Heart is Mending, as she looks into my Eyes
She seems to know my Deepest Thoughts and Fears..
And to her Gaze, She knows my Heart, is Genuine and True..
And I have never Let Her Go, These Many Years..
What Grace of God, so undeserved, What Never-Changing Love
What Mercy, What Commpassion, He has shown,
My Heart will sing an endless song, my Mama's Hand in Mine
As we Share each Precious day, each Joy unknown.
We'll Laugh & sing, Embrace, and cry, and treasure every day.
As though We Both had Never been Apart..
And We'll Praise for all eternity, and Marvel at God's Gift.
And the Age old mystery, of a Mother's Heart..

I have found my birthmother after 23 yrs of searching, & have been reunited w/ my daughter as well, who was adopted, 17 yrs ago...3 generations of searching & separation, have come to a beautiful close...Thank you for listening. - Lindi Jo Hall

For more adoption poetry, visit http://poetry.adoption.com.

Submit your adoption poetry to editor@adoptionmedia.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

18. ADOPTION CALENDAR

CHAT SCHEDULE:

Sunday:
Reunion Support Group Chat with Loretta in the Search and Reunion room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern

Monday:
Join Dr. Art Becker-Weidman in the hosted chat room at 2pm Pacific, 3pm Mountain, 4pm Central, 5pm Eastern and ask him questions on attachment therapy and treating children with trauma-attachment disorders.

Adoptee Chat with Thea in the hosted chat room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern. Thea is a caring adoptee that has recently reunited with her birthmother.

Tuesday:
Birth mom chat with Angelwings. Angel is a birthmom and adoptee. Her chat is held in the BirthMother.chat room at 4pm Pacific, 5pm Mountain, 6pm Central, 7pm Eastern

Birth father's General Support Chat in the hosted chat room with adoptee and birthfather, Terry. All are invited at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm central, 9pm Eastern

Attachment Disorder: A Journey of Hope Chat with Parent Nancy Geoghegan; educational weekly chat at 7pm Pacific, 8pm Mountain, 9pm Central, 10pm Eastern

Wednesday:
Pre- and adoptive parent chat with JJ and friends - Help as you begin the adoption process. Hosted in Adoptive Parents chat room at 5pm Pacific, 6pm Mountain, 7pm Central, 8pm Eastern.

Parenting issues for adoptive/foster parents with Dimasmom in FosterCare chat room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern.

Join an informative chat on the ups and downs of reunion hosted by Sabra since 1997. Talk out your next step and share your experiences in search and reunion at 7pm Pacific, 8pm Mountain, 9pm Central, 10pm Eastern in the Search and Reunion chat room.

Thursday:
Evening with Colleen Buckner, search expert, in Search and Reunion chat room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern.

Friday:
If you are having a "limbo" type experience with your reunion, come and talk it over with those who've "been there-done that" themselves. Join co-hosting birth mothers, April and Judy, in the Search and Reunion room on Fridays: 5pm Pacific, 6pm Mountain, 7pm Central, 8pm Eastern.

Saturday:
Older child adoption/foster care behavioral issues with Jerry in FosterCare chat room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern.

For a listing of times and descriptions and to attend scheduled chats, or join the live chat, visit http://forums.adoption.com/chat.

ADOPTION EVENTS:

OPENNESS IN ADOPTION
June 10 (7:00 - 8:30 pm)
Heights Parent Center, 1700 Crest Road, Cleveland Heights, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Speaker: Maureen Heffernan
Who can attend: Fee for non-members. Child care available. Please call to register at (216) 321-0079.

HOW TO ADOPT WORKSHOP FOR NY & NJ RESIDENTS
June 11, July 9, August 13 (6:00 - 8:00 pm)
130 East 59 Street (UJA-Federation), Manhattan
$25 per person
Ametz Adoption Program, JCCA
A good place to start if you are just thinking about adoption. Includes domestic and international adoption options, working with attorneys and agencies, costs, time frames, adoption home studies and first steps. Presentations by Ametz and international adoption agency staff. Questions are encouraged. For more information or to register, please contact Susan Kupferberg at (212) 558-9949 or e-mail ametz@jccany.org.

AKRON GENERAL MEETING ­ Topic: Control
June 11 (7:30 - 9:30 pm)
Akron General Health and Wellness Center, 4125 Medina Road, Akron, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Who can attend: Adult adoptees, birthparents, siblings, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, professionals and anyone who is interested in lifelong adoption issues. No registration or membership is required to attend. For more information, contact Adoption Network Cleveland at (216) 881-7511, or on the web at http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND GENERAL MEETING ­ NEW
June 13 (11:00 am ­ 1:00 pm) - Bring lunch if you wish
Adoption Network Cleveland, 1667 East 40th St. Suite B-1, Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Who can attend: Adult adoptees, birthparents, siblings, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, professionals and anyone who is interested in lifelong adoption issues. No registration or membership is required to attend. For more information, contact Adoption Network Cleveland at (216) 881-7511, or on the web at http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

LISTENING & COMMUNICATION SKILLS FOR FAMILIES
June 18 (6:00 ­ 9:00 pm) - Bring lunch if you wish
Berea Children¹s Home, Center City Office, 2121 East 32nd St., Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Presenter: Kim Langley
RSVP: Free workshop. Foster parent training certificates and social work/counselor CEU's provided. Registration is required, please call (216) 881-7511. Registration closes 3 day prior to workshop.

PARENTING WITH EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
June 21 (9:00 am ­ 4:00 pm) - Bring lunch if you wish
Berea Children¹s Home, Center City Office, 2121 East 32nd St., Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Presenter: Kim Langley
RSVP: Free workshop. Foster parent training certificates and social work/counselor CEU's provided. Registration is required, please call (216) 881-7511. Registration closes 3 day prior to workshop.

NEW WAYS TO MANAGE DIFFICULT BEHAVIOR: PUTTING SOME FUN BACK IN PARENTING
June 23 (6:00 ­ 9:00 pm) - Bring lunch if you wish
Adoption Network Cleveland, 1667 East 40th St. Suite B-1, Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Presenter: Arleta James
RSVP: Free workshop. Foster parent training certificates and social work/counselor CEU's provided. Registration is required, please call (216) 881-7511. Registration closes 3 day prior to workshop.

MISUNDERSTOOD MINDS: Getting a Handle on Learning Differences (Disabilities)
June 24 (9:30 am ­ 12:30 pm) - Bring lunch if you wish
BeechBrook, 3737 Lander Rd., Pepper Pike, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Presenter: Kim Langley
RSVP: Free workshop. Foster parent training certificates and social work/counselor CEU's provided. Registration is required, please call (216) 881-7511. Registration closes 3 day prior to workshop.

LAKE COUNTY GENERAL MEETING ­ New Location
June 24 (7:30 ­ 9:00 pm)
Deepwood North Apartments, Rental Office/Community Room, 8100 Deepwood Blvd. (off Rt. 84) Mentor, Ohio. Follow signs to rental office.
Adoption Network Cleveland
Who can attend: Adult adoptees, birthparents, siblings, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, professionals and anyone who is interested in lifelong adoption issues. No registration or membership is required to attend. For more information, contact Adoption Network Cleveland at (216) 881-7511, or on the web at http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION SUPPORT MEETING
June 25 (7:00 ­ 8:30 pm)
Euclid Public Library, Erie Room, 631 E. 222nd. St., Euclid, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Who can attend: Adoptive parents or prospective adoptive parents of internationally adopted children. No registration or membership is required to attend. For more information, contact Adoption Network Cleveland at (216) 881-7511, or on the web at http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

WORKSHOP FOR PROSPECTIVE ADOPTIVE PARENTS CONSIDERING CHINA ADOPTION
June 28 (11:00 am - 1:00 pm)
Three Oaks Library, 3 North Elm St., Three Oaks, MI
Great Wall China Adoption
Free workshop for prospective adoptive parents and others seeking more information about adopting from China. Couples from ages 30 to 55 are eligible to adopt. A Great Wall China Adoption representative who has just completed her adoption will be presenting. For further information or to reserve a place at the workshop, please contact Kim Bakos at (269) 429-6292 or by e-mail at kimberbakos@yahoo.com.

18TH ANNUAL ARCHEOLOGY: Summer Intensives on Adoption and Complex Families
July 7 - 8 (Session I; 8:00 am - 4:00 pm)
July 9 (Session II; 8:00 am - 4:30 pm)
July 10 - 11 (Session III; 8:00 am - 3:00 pm and 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, respectively)
Provincetown, MA
Adoption Resource Center & Center For Family Connections
Session I: Advanced Clinical Intensives ; $400
Session II: The Community of Adoption; $200 for newcomers/$100 for repeat attendees
Session III: 2nd Annual International Adoption Video/Film Festival; $200 for both days/$150 for single day
Fee for Sessions I, II, and III = $725
Payment is non-refundable.
(Proceeds from the Video/Film Festival go to the Expressive Therapy Programs of CFFC)
The ARC Summer Intensives are based on Dr. Pavao's Normative Crisis framework, her years of clinical experience, and her consulting and training expertise. The workshops utilize family systems theory, which is the basis of Dr. Pavao's work. Systemic thinking is woven throughout the design of each workshop.
Register as soon as possible, there is limited space. Social Work and LMFT CEUs are available for an additional $35 per session. Limited scholarships are available (scholarships do not apply to the Video/Film Festival or CEUs). Check our website, http://www.Kinnect.org, for updates. Accommodation information and directions are available upon registration.

WORKSHOP FOR PROSPECTIVE ADOPTIVE PARENTS CONSIDERING CHINA ADOPTION
August 2 (1:00 - 3:00 pm)
Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd, Ypsilanti, MI
Great Wall China Adoption
Free workshop for prospective adoptive parents and others seeking more information about adopting from China. Couples from ages 30 to 55 are eligible to adopt. A Great Wall China Adoption representative who has just completed her adoption will be presenting. For further information or to reserve a place at the workshop, please contact Kim Bakos at (269) 429-6292 or by e-mail at kimberbakos@yahoo.com.

For local listings, regional seminars, and many other adoption events, visit AdoptionCalendar.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

CALL FOR CONTENT
Adoption Week Magazine is looking for well-written adoption-related articles, poems, quotes, book reviews, news, event announcements, product reviews, photos, successful adoption and reunion stories, clean humor, job openings, letters to the editor, reviews of adoption websites, product recalls, information on adoption legislation, great deals on adoption and family-related products, other adoption-related content. To submit content, or if you would like to be interviewed or to nominate someone for an adoption service award, please visit AdoptionWeek.com.

TO ADVERTISE
Would you like to advertise in the Adoption Week e-mail magazine? Call 1-800-ADOPT-HERE or e-mail sales@adoption.com for more advertising information.

REFER IT
We hope you enjoyed this issue of Adoption Week e-Magazine and encourage you to forward it to others who might find this information useful.

TO SUBSCRIBE OR UNSUBSCRIBE
If you want a free weekly e-mail subscription to Adoption Week e-Magazine, or would like to unsubscribe, visit AdoptionWeek.com.

DISCLAIMER
This e-magazine is provided as a free community service, and by using and reading it you agree to the terms and conditions as posted at AdoptionWeek.com. Adoption.com makes no warrantee about the accurateness of any information in this magazine, and does not endorse any adoption professional, adoption product or other adoption service. If you have received this e-mail erroneously, or do not agree to the terms of this disclaimer, please unsubscribe.