1. ANNOUNCEMENT

HELP US GET ADOPTION STORIES IN YOUR LOCAL MEDIA
Do you have an awesome adoption story to share? Would you like to make a difference by helping get your local media organizations (television, newspaper, radio, magazine, etc.) to run stories on adoption, and help more children find loving, permanent homes, help more families adopt, and help more adoptees and birthparents to be reunited? November is National Adoption Awareness Month. Join Adoption.com as we celebrate by covering America with adoption-related stories. Our goal is to reach every state across the United States with the miracle of families who celebrate their lives being touched by adoption. Our Public Relations Department will provide background information and resources on adoption to help these media organizations easily write stories. Help us reach the hearts of your local community by contacting pr@adoption.com.

NEW ADDOPTIVE PARENT CLUBS
The list of New Adoptive Parent Clubs on Forums.Adoption.com has been expanded! Go to http://forums.adoption.com/f724.html to share your adoption story and experiences with other parents who completed adoptions in the same month as you!

NEW FORUM FOR ADOPTION PROFESSIONALS
There is a new forum for adoption professionals wishing to post job openings. Go to http://forums.adoption.com/f833.html to post the opening in the category Available Adoption Jobs. Also there is a forum for those wishing to post resumes for adoption-related jobs in the category Adoption Jobs Resumes.

SHARE YOUR SEARCH & REUNION STORIES AND PHOTOS
If you are an adoptee, birth parent, birth sibling, or birth relative who has been reunited with a loved one, Adoption.com is inviting you to share your reunion story and photo. You are welcome to send both to editor@adoptionmedia.com.

LEARN TO DESIGN AND DEVELOP WEBSITE USER EXPERIENCES THAT WORK
Are you a designer, or do you want to dramatically improve the effectiveness of your website? Adoption.com announces the conference of Nielsen Norman Group, Sept 21-25. This conference is the most extensive, diverse, in-depth event they have ever offered on Internet user experiences, covering all aspects of user experience for websites, intranets, software, and products. http://nngroup.com/events/

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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.

Encouragement and Caution - new article contributed by Linda S. Cusick
We raced downstairs and got on the computer and using several search engines looked for the name, an unusual Italian surname that made the search much easier. We found several people, but none the right age. It suddenly dawned on both my son and I that we should search for her little brother, also named in the paperwork I had gotten. As a male, his name was not likely to have changed, and his first name was as unique as their last name. In less than one minute we had a phone number. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=324

Not Lost, But Found - new article contributed by Cindy Valerio Sarmento
As I grew older, I was curious as to who I might look like. Mom never liked it when I asked these questions. When I had my own daughters, I finally understood why she felt threatened. My babies were mine, it wouldn't have mattered how I got them. I loved them. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=325

The Hardest Thing I Have Ever Done - new article contributed by Whitney
The reason I gave my son up for adoption is because I thought that it was the best thing for me and for my son. I know that there are places that I could have gone and people that could have helped me, but that is not (what I) wanted for my son. I wanted him to grow up with his family and with his mother and to be with the people that I thought were going to love him. But it turns out that no one loved him but me. My mother, the one that made me give him up for adoption, was there with me when I had my son. She was crying, and at the end she felt bad about what she was making me do. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=326

The Ramblings Of A Mother - new article contributed by Donna Chilton Gray
I'm alone with my thoughts - forever lost in the past. I can't make it to the future. No reason to try. Lost in the world of biological mothers. Such a cold, unfeeling term. Wish I knew who was the first to think of us in that way. There should be a better way of referring to us. Is there no one that knows the love we felt for our children as we carried them beneath our hearts? http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=327

Read these articles at http://e-magazine.adoption.com, and submit your adoption-related articles to editor@adoptionmedia.com for publication in Adoption Week e-Magazine and Adoption.com.

By submitting content, you represent that you have the rights to this content and that you give Adoption.com and Adoption Week the right to reprint this content on the internet, via e-mail, and in print form.

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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.
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3. ADOPTION NEWS

All About Adoption (IN)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.indystar.com/print/articles/8/073070-9718-108.html

Readers Share Adoption Stories from the Heart (WA)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/lifestyle/138086_adoptiononline11.html

Foster Care System Fails Kids' Relatives (MI)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.freep.com/news/childrenfirst/adopt9_20030909.htm

DHS May End Adoption Subsidy (IL)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.dmregister.com/news/stories/c4780934/22211963.html

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

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4. ADOPTION BOOK CLUB

My Life Book
My Life Book is a wonderful tool for helping children develop a sense of identity. Creating a Life Book can be productive and fun for anyone. Looking back over your own life story will offer tremendous insights into your life. For children separated from their birth families, whose history can be fragmented and confusing, the process can be especially valuable. Coming to understand one's past is a very helpful way to prepare for the future. The album contains thirty-five sheets of heavy, blank, card stock and has a soft cover of leather-like pebbled vinyl. A gold embossed title adds the necessary personal character. Pages are designed so they will lie flat and are easily moveable. Children can use paste, pen, pencil, crayon, paint and eraser on them. The washable covers are soft, pliable and a pleasure to manipulate.

For more information on this book, visit http://adoptionshop.com/cgi-bin/products/ARV00004.html.

Find 1,000+ 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.

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5. CHILDREN'S BUREAU EXPRESS

September 2003 Edition

Top Stories

Flexible Funding Demonstration Projects Show Promise
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=727

Access to Adoption Law Now Easier Than Ever
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=699

National PSA Campaign Urges Adults to Report Child Abuse
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=700

Research

Foster Parents, Relatives Adopt Majority of Children with Special Needs
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=702

Positive Results for Family Group Decision Making
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=704

Promising Practices

Boston Partnership for Child Welfare Reform Sees Results
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=706

Linking Child Welfare and Behavioral Health Services
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=707

News You Can Use

Publications
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=708

Funding
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=709

Training
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=710

Conferences
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=711>

Spotlight on the National Resource Centers

Promoting Improved Permanency Outcomes for America’s Children and Youth: National Resource Center for Foster Care and Permanency Planning
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=693

Credit: Children's Bureau Express
Link: http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/

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6. MEET NEW HOPEFUL ADOPTIVE PARENTS

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

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7. SUCCESSFUL ADOPTION

After deciding to pursue independent adoption we suffered through a long year with only a few leads that didn't pan out successfully. Desperate to get things moving in the right direction, we searched the internet and found Adoption.com. We were impressed with the site and quickly started working on our profile. We worked on it for 3 weeks and turned it live on September 1st. Our birthmother, Angie, contacted us September 3rd! And she wasn't the only one! We had 9 leads in 9 weeks! But Angie was the one. She gave birth to our beautiful baby boy on December 8th.

We passed our other leads on to another couple who we knew wanted to adopt. The leads from us didn't pan out, however, they decided to post a profile. From the time they posted to the finalization of their adoption of their daughter was 6 months!

We hope to add another child to our family in the near future, and you can bet we'll be posting our profile on Adoption.com with a new picture of the THREE of us!

Thanks for helping our dream come true!

Tony, Tanya & Tony II

If you are hoping to adopt, visit http://profiles.adoption.com today to start building your online profile.

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8. FEATURED WAITING CHILD

Richard is a very intelligent young man. He is learning to express his feelings and wants to be successful. His favorite past time is reading and he can be found getting deeply involved in the books he enjoys. Richard does not have any health problems or special medical conditions. He is shy, and it takes him time to warm up to others. Richard is learning to set positive boundaries with other children and is making progress in this area. He is excited about someone wanting to have him as part of their family. His family will need to be patient and willing to work with him at setting appropriate boundaries. Richard can offer love to any family and wants the chance to prove it.

http://photolisting.adoption.com is a free community service of Adoption.com featuring more than 1,800 children awaiting loving, permanent homes. Add your agency's waiting children to the most popular adoption website, and help them find loving homes faster. E-mail exchange@adoptablekids.com for info.

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9. ADOPTION GEM

10. ADOPTION BUZZ

African American Adoptive Parents: - Time for Nursery?
http://forums.adoption.com/t96547.html

ADD/ADHD: - Sleeping Aides for Children?
http://forums.adoption.com/t114424.html

Foster Care to Adoption What is it Like?: - Fos-Adopt: Major Risks Involved?
http://forums.adoption.com/t112870.html

Adoptee Support: - What to Write to BSiblings before Bparents?
http://forums.adoption.com/t114325.html

Abortion Alternatives: - Adoption vs. Abortion
http://forums.adoption.com/t107004.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.

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11. ADOPTION SITE SPOTLIGHT

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

If you are considering adoption, have adopted, or curious about adoption and have questions but don't know who to ask, visit AdoptionExperts.com.

At AdoptionExperts.com , you can ask an adoption expert a question via e-mail. Adoptive parents, ask a doctor about a child's special medical needs. Birth mothers, ask an agency a question. Adoptees or birth parents, ask an adoption search/reunion expert a question.

Don't be puzzled. If you have an adoption-related question, this is the place to ask it.

For a list of our favorite adoption websites, visit AdoptionSites.com.

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12. 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 Ukraine.

Ukraine is located in Eastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Poland and Russia. Richly endowed in natural resources, Ukraine has been fought over and subjugated for centuries; its 20th-century struggle for liberty is not yet complete.

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

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13. JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT

WHOSE BELLY?

I have a daughter, who is a birthchild, and 2 sons who are adopted from Korea. One day my son asked me if my daughter had been in my belly. I said, "Yes."

Wanting to know if he understood where he came from, I asked if he had been in my belly.

He said, "No."

I asked him whose belly he was in. He answered, "Korea's."

Contributed by: Kelly Hughes
Jessica, 10, Grant 5 (Korea) Mitchell 3 (Korea)

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

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14. FEATURED ADOPTION PROFESSIONAL

Shorstein & Kelly, Attorneys at law, P.A.
Jacksonville, FL
Toll Free: (800) 348-6434
Phone: (904) 348-6400
Adoption@Shorsteinkelly.com

Our law firm specializes in domestic, interstate, identified & family adoptions. Legal services provided to adoptive parents & birth parents. We represent a local adoption agency and assist adoptive parents seeking to be matched with birth parents.

Services: • Adoption Agencies • Adoption Attorneys

For more information on Shorstein & Kelly, Attorneys at law, visit http://www.adoption-usa.com/.

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

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

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15. ADOPTIONSHOP.COM PICK

Shrinky Butterfly Chosen Child Russia 1 in. wide - Only $0.99

Remember Shrinky Dinks as a child? Well, here is a twist with an adoption theme! Because the finished product is so small and lightweight, it makes a great embellishment for a scrapbook page!

For more information and ordering instructions, visit http://adoptionshop.com/cgi-bin/products/SCR00228.html.

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

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16. 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. The views expressed by this author is solely his own, and for which the author is responsible. The content within this column is not to be considered as professional medical, legal or behavioral health information to be used in diagnosis, treatment or actions that would require the consultation and/or services of a licensed, certified or accredited professional. These views do not necessarily represent the views of Adoption Week e-Magazine.

Question:

I am not sure what I should do to try and find my birth mother, I am worried and scared that my adoptive parents will be upset with me, but it is something that I feel very strongly about. I know that this query site is not the place to be asking for help, but I am desperate. I don't know how to start. If someone would please nudge me in the right direction, that would be so wonderful. I was adopted at 3 1/2 in CA, and it was an open adoption between lawyers. Should I go to the state capital to find out my records? I don't know what to do.

DF in CA

Answer:

DF:

Normally, I do not answer search inquiry questions; however, I am making an exception in your case. The main reason I am making an exception in your case is due to the fact that you hit on a couple of things in your email that a lot of people feel similar about.

You are NOT going to upset your adoptive parents or hurt their feelings if you tell them about your interest in searching for your biological family.It is completely normal to be curious, and your adoptive parents know that. I constantly get e-mails from young people who are afraid to say anything to their families about their interests in searching for their biological families. It is both normal to be hesitant to convey this desire and to be curious in the first place, but you have to remember that your family is there for you.

Your adoptive parents have been preparing themselves for this since they adopted you. Trust me when I tell you that they did not adopt you and then never expect you to ask questions and want to search for them. It is hard, I know, I sat down and spoke to my adoptive parents about my curiosities and about searching. It was a little scary at first, but it was the best thing I ever did. Through sitting down with them, I found out that they had the original adoption paperwork. I would never have known of my biological mother if I had not sat down with my adoptive parents to talk about it.

Please, sit down and talk to your adoptive parents. I promise you that you will find they are behind you 110%. Not only will they not be mad or upset with you, they will stand at your side and help you in any way you require. That's what parents do. Just remember that you are who you are because of them. They raised you, disciplined you, fed you and did all of the other things that go along with raising a child. Nothing can take that away. Remind them that you love them for all of that, and that searching for your biological parents is not going to change anything they have done for you. They will understand. I cannot stress this enough. If you want help, talk to your adoptive parents.

Good luck to you and please, no matter how hard it seems, please talk to your adoptive parents. They will appreciate that you felt comfortable enough to ask them about the adoption. You may find that they know more about it than you think.

DB

Question:

We have adopted three special needs children. All are doing well. I have wondered if we should adopt another? All of our children are under the age of six. Some days are very stressful, and others are just happy-go-lucky. I am not sure if I can handle a fourth, but my husband would love another child. I love all of our children deeply and can see myself loving more, too; however, some days are difficult with the demands of motherhood to special needs kids. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

C.

Answer:

C.

I think it is wonderful that you have adopted three special needs children. To honestly answer your question, I have to advise that ultimately the decision is yours to make. I have no idea what your financial situation is like, the amount of time you are able to give a fourth child, etc. There is a lot that goes into all of this, as you already know. Many people have difficulties raising four children who do not require special attention, much less four children who require special attention.

You have many options at this point. You can adopt a fourth special needs child (what you and your husband are doing is wonderful), you can adopt a fourth child that is not handicapped, or you could look into being more active in the special needs community (although I am not sure of your current involvement). When it comes down to it, it is you and your husband's decision.

My advice is to sit down with your husband and go over your financial situation and first decide if adopting a fourth child with special needs will take away from what you are able to provide for the other three. If you decide you can handle the addition financially, take a look at what your capabilities are, and be honest with yourself. Can you provide the attention and support equally for all four children? Can your husband? In any event, this all comes from you and your husband. I cannot advise you either way.

I wish you the best and good luck. You are a saint. God bless you and your husband for the love that you are giving your children, who otherwise may not have experienced it.

DB


BIO:

The author is a 21-year-old adoptee who wants to help those affiliated with the adoption community. Although the author does not have a medical degree, etc., he is simply extending a listening ear and the perspective of a young adult who is involved in the adoption triad.

His opinions are not necessarily those of Adoption.com and are provided voluntarily on a weekly basis.

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.

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17. SPEAK OUT

Hi, I am a birthmom and was reunited with my son on May 23, 2003, exactly one month after his 23 birthday. I was a mere 16 years old when I found myself pregnant and not able to care for my child. My only alternative to provide for him was placing him for adoption. I never saw his little face or had the opportunity to hold him after he was born. For years, I carried this picture in my head of what he looked like along with the memories of his cry. For years I wanted to find him; however, I was uncertain as to how it would affect him. I first spoke with his adopted mother on the phone on May 8, 2003 and was told that he had known about being adopted ever since he was old enough to understand, and had they known I wanted to find him, they would have included me in on all aspects of his life. I then spoke to Jason (that's his name) 2 days before Mother's Day 2003. Then on Mother's Day, I got an e-mail from him along with photos of him and my new daughter-in-law Erica, who wed on November 16, 2002. It was the BEST Mother's Day gift EVER. I'm happy to say that we live only 4 hours apart and talk on a regular basis. My life is now complete, and I no longer live with that huge void in my heart. For all of those still searching or wondering whether to take that first step....DO IT and DON'T GIVE UP!!! The rewards are endless, and your peace of mind is priceless.

Thankful for ALL my blessings, Jayda Whiddon (Heal My Heart), Denton, Texas

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Vicki, I am a birth mother who would love to have contact with my daughter but have been unable to at this point. I don't know what happened to your mom so many years ago to make the decisions she has chosen. I do know that if you can find it in your heart to forgive her without her asking and give her some space, it will free her. In this freedom, she may be able to recognize you some day. Forgiveness is so tough but my God is big enough to help you, and all you have to do is ask him. He is faithful even when all that we know fails us. I also think that you have to try to change your mindset of being "gotten rid of" and rather begin to tell yourself that you are a precious gift given to your adoptive parents. You are a precious, special gift! I hope you can find the peace you are looking for! - Michelle

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Here is a suggestion for anyone interested... I have a rather unusual name (first and last), and I typed my name into the search engine, and came up two times for having been on the dean's list at the college I went to. It may work for others in refining the location of adoptees or bio-parents. Good luck to everyone out there! - Jana

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I am not a success story but on the contrary. I have filled out my forms for approval to reunite with my mother and brother but to no avail. I am sure they just know about the option of placing it in my file. I know she called my adoptive parent many times as I was growing up and wanted contact very badly. My adoptive mother with not help me. Are there any other options for me? I don't have the money to hire a companies assistance. Is there anything I can do on my own? Any direction would be appreciated. - W.S.

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My husband and I have adopted two children through the Catholic Social Servies in Illinois. Our daughter Tracy will be 21 on September 9, 2003, and our son Anthony is 18; his birthday is March 20, 1984. Tracy and Tony are real brother and sister. They have the same mother but different fathers. They have known since they were small that they were adopted. It has been brought up lately that they would like to meet their birth mother and fathers if possible. My daughter is interested in health issues of her parents. I have a wonderful relationship with them, and I encourage them to pursue this. I have tried to locate the mother throught adoption on-line, but no results. I think I do know what her name is, living in the Peoria, Illinois area at the time of their birth. I do believe in my heart that it would be wonderful for them to meet her. They are both attending Eureka College in Eureka, Illinois, most likely they both want to become teachers.

I am so proud of my children and their accomplishments, and I think it would be wonderful for them to meet and have a relationship with their birthmother and birthfathers if possible. Thank you. - Pam Baker smartblonderules@hotmail.com.

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December 1, 1962 -- is that the date you were born at St. Anthony's Hospital in Rock Island, Illinois? We all want to meet you -- your sister, your two brothers and myself. Daughter, you can take this as slow or fast as you wish. We just want to meet you. (dtribbett@springnet1.com)

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I am not a success story but on the contrary. I have filled out my forms for approval to reunite with my mother and brother but to no avail. I am sure they just know about the option of placing it in my file. I know she called my adoptive parent many times as I was growing up and wanted contact very badly. My adoptive mother will not help me. Are there any other options for me? I don't have the money to hire a company's assistance. Is there anything I can do on my own? Any direction would be appreciated. Thanks. - W.S.

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Female "Willow Maki". No middle name. Born January 22, 1971 at Fairveiw Hospital in Minneapolis, Minesota. She was adopted through Lutheran Social Services on Park Avenue and has not been found in the state of MN. My mother, her biological mother, has done 2 searches, and the case worker contacted one of her brothers 19 years her senior. He also was adopted into Willow's adoptive family, and my mom has not been able to locate her yet. The other name on her file is "Alfred Brown," and we are wondering if that is her adoptive father. We want her to know she has 3 sisters and a bio mom that would love to meet her. Please contact me on my home # 1-888-886-4209, or e-mail me at dawny@cmgate.com if you know anything about her.
- Dawn G.

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Are you related to me? My father was an adoptee born 9/21/30 Brighton, MA, adopted through Florence Crittenton Agency. He will be 73 soon and wants to find out his heritage to pass on to me. My mom raised me, and I just recently met my dad. He told me his birth mom was Gladys Hoar from Nova Scotia, born 12/30/11. He met her before she died in FL in '91 and she told him his birth father's name - Harold Cronin. There are thousands of people in MA are with the name Cronin, Cronan, Cronen, etc. He doesn't know the spelling. Harold would've been born between 1902-1910 as Gladys said he was in his 20's in '30 when my dad was born. Please help me locate any birth family members that might know about my dad. Gladys and all her brothers are deceased, and we don't now of anyone that might know. She later married and had a son named Henry in FL who is 67. He and my dad just talked by phone; he's my uncle. Those 2 are the only blood relatives I know from his birth family. We think the Cronins are from Ireland. Can anyone help us find them? Thank you. - Ryan, age 22, searching for my roots! (JONESLDS@YAHOO.COM)

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I am looking for my daughter that I gave up for adoption in 1980. She was born on December 13, 1979 in Milwaukee, WIsconsin. Her adoption took place through Catholic Adoption Services. Her birth name was Tanya Steinpas. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of her. My mother just passed away recently, and I had started a search for her so my Mom could possibly meet her before her death. However, she succumbed to her illness. I wonder what she looks like and what she is doing with her life. I would like to meet her someday. I am writing this message to let her know that it is ok to contact me. If she chooses not to, then that is something I will have to deal with. - Sandy (SteinpasS@mail.opd.state.wi.us)

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I am looking for a female that I put up for adoption in 1955, when I was 15 years old. She was born on Dec 13 in Jersey City at a place called "Door of Hope," a a Catholic home for unwed mothers. I think it was an agency sponsored by the Salvation Army. She was taken from me by nuns within a week of her birth. I named her Kim; however, I know they were changing the name to Mary because Kim was not a Catholic name. You can call me at (609)426-5841.

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

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18. ADOPTION POETRY

A PROMISE

I Promise.....
To hold you, feed you, change you and bathe you as you enter your new life.

I Promise.....
To comfort you, love you, talk to you and cherish your being in my life.

I Promise.....
To play with you, encourage you to roll over, give you something to smile for, make you reach as you crawl and cheer as you take your first step.

I Promise.....
To guide you in school, color with you, help you study for tests, answer questions about dating, and reassure you when your best friend lets you down.

I Promise.....
To tell you that I love you-every single day, to teach you right from wrong, to make you reach high, want more and realize that with love comes respect.

I Promise.....
To teach you about your birth, share your special journey with you, tell you about your mother's unselfish decision and our blessing.

I Promise.....
To remind you of your heritage, share with you your past and help mold you into a beautiful young adult.

I Promise.....
To make mistakes, learn from them and never give up.

I Promise this of myself to you. To be the best mom in the world. To cherish every single day and Thank God for the miracle of you!

~~July 15, 2002~~ Dawn Stluka
(I wrote this for our birth mom and our new baby six weeks before Makenzi came into this world last August.)

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

Submit your adoption poetry to editor@adoptionmedia.com.

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19. ADOPTION CALENDAR

CHAT SCHEDULE:

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

Monday:
Join Dr. Art Becker-Weidman in the hosted chat room at 2 pm Pacific, 3 pm Mountain, 4 pm Central, 5 pm 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 6 pm Pacific, 7 pm Mountain, 8 pm Central, 9 pm 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 4 pm Pacific, 5 pm Mountain, 6 pm Central, 7 pm Eastern

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

Attachment Disorder: A Journey of Hope Chat with Parent Nancy Geoghegan; educational weekly chat at 7 pm Pacific, 8 pm Mountain, 9 pm Central, 10 pm 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 5 pm Pacific, 6 pm Mountain, 7 pm Central, 8 pm Eastern.

Parenting issues for adoptive/foster parents with Dimasmom in FosterCare chat room at 6 pm Pacific, 7 pm Mountain, 8 pm Central, 9 pm 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 7 pm Pacific, 8 pm Mountain, 9 pm Central, 10 pm Eastern in the Search and Reunion chat room.

Thursday:
Evening with Colleen Buckner, search expert, in Search and Reunion chat room at 6 pm Pacific, 7 pm Mountain, 8 pm Central, 9 pm 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: 5 pm Pacific, 6 pm Mountain, 7 pm Central, 8 pm Eastern.

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

BRINGING HOME BABY: TREATMENT OR ADOPTION
Hilo: September 20; and Kauai: September 21
Hawaii International Child
Resolve Hawaii, connected to the National Infertility Association, is sponsoring information seminars in connection with National Infertility Awareness Week, and Hawaii International Child (a licensed non-profit adoption agency) is taking part. Special presentations by adoption professionals as well as by adoptive parents are planned for these afternoon seminars. For more information, contact vanice@h-i-c.org or visit http://www.h-i-c.org.

ONE DAY INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION SEMINAR
September 27 (9:30 am - 4:30 pm)
Little Rock Athletic Club, 4610 Sam Peck Road (Hwy 10 West,) Little Rock, AR
Dillon International, Inc.
International adoption can be a wonderful experience. Meet adoptive families, their children, and staff members of Dillon International, Inc. The cost is $60.00 for a married couple and $50.00 for a single adult applicant. The fee covers lunch and seminar materials. acilities do not provide for childcare. To register, e-mail bev@dillonadopt.com, call (918) 749-4600, or visit http://www.dillonadopt.com/Seminars%20and%20Workshops.htm.

ABC'S OF INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION
September 27 (10:00 am - 11:30 am)
Norman Public Library, 225 N. Webster, Norman, OK
Dillon International, Inc.
During this free informational meeting, attendees will be given an overview of the process of international adoption, individual country requirements and adoption costs. In addition, they will be given information on waiting children from South Korea, China, India, Ukraine, Vietnam, Haiti, and Guatemala. Please call (405) 329-0531, e-mail vnwood@flash.net, or visit http://www.dillonadopt.com/Seminars%20and%20Workshops.htm for details.

BIRTHPARENT SUPPORT MEETING
October 1 (6:30 pm - 8:30 pm)
Adoption Network Cleveland, 1667 East 40th St. Suite B-1, Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Who can attend: Birthparents who have placed a child for adoption. Please call (216) 881-7511 or visit http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org for details.

CULTURAL ISSUES
October 1 (6:00 pm ­ 9:00 pm)
Cleveland Christian Home, 1700 Denison Ave. Room 202, Cleveland
Adoption Network Cleveland
Presenter: Angie Avery
RSVP: Free workshop. Foster parent training certificates and social work/counselor CEUšs provided. Registration is required, please call (216) 881-7511. Registration closes 3 days prior to workshop.

ROCKY RIVER GENERAL MEETING
October 2 (7:30 pm - 9:30 pm)
West Shore Unitarian Church, 20401 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River, 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.

MICHIGAN ADOPTION CONFERENCE
October 4
Northville, MI
Kingdom Kids Adoption Ministry
There will be 40 workshops to choose from and two general sessions as well. Issues that will be addressed are anything pertaining to adoption, internationally and domestically. Whether you're just thinking about adoption, have adopted, or just know someone that has adopted this is for you! Cost is $25/individual or $40/couple. Please call (509) 465-3520 to register or visit http://www.kkadoption.com for more information.

AKRON GENERAL MEETING
October 8 (7:30 pm - 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.

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT SKILLS FOR FAMILIES
October 9 (6:00 pm - 9:00 pm)
Cuyahoga County DCFS, 3955 Euclid Ave., 3rd Floor, Cleveland
Adoption Network Cleveland
Presenter: Kim Langley
RSVP: Free workshop. Foster parent training certificates and social work/counselor CEUšs provided. Registration is required, please call (216) 881-7511. Registration closes 3 days prior to workshop.

DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND GENERAL MEETING
October 10 (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.

ADOPTING FROM CHINA EVENT
October 11 (10:00 am - 2:00 pm)
Southlake, TX
Great Wall China Adoption
Learn more about China's adoption program, find out what the home study is all about, talk with a readoption attorney, meet families who have already completed their adoption. For more information, please visit our website athttp:/www.gwcadopt.org/wsregister.htm, or call us at (512) 323-9595 x 2510.

ADOPTION 101
October 11 (12:30 pm ­ 5:00 pm - registration at 12:00)
Adoption Network Cleveland, 1667 East 40th St. Suite B-1, Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
A workshop for people looking into adoption for the first time. The presentation includes information on: getting, started, timelines, expenses, special issues, infant adoption, waiting children in Ohio, birthfamilies and more. Open to the public. RSVP: Registration is $35 per person or $45 per couple before 10-8-03. Registration after 10-08-03 or at the door is $40 per person or $50 per couple. Seating is limited, so please call (216) 881-7511 to register early.

ADOPTION EDUCATION SERIES FOR PROSPECTIVE ADOPTIVE PARENTS
October 11 (3:00 pm - 5:00 pm)
Santa Cruz, California
Adoption Paths
Prospective adoptive parents are invited to explore their questions and concerns about all types of adoption in a four-week educational series led by Sara Lively, M.S.Ed. For more information and to register, call (831) 476-7252 or visit http://www.adoptionpaths.com

TELLING THE TRUTH TO YOUR ADOPTED CHILD
October 16 (6:00 pm ­ 9:00 pm)
Berea Childrenšs Home, 303 E. Bagley, Berea
Adoption Network Cleveland
Presenter: Cheryl Reber
RSVP: Free workshop. Foster parent training certificates and social work/counselor CEUšs provided. Registration is required, please call (216) 881-7511. Registration closes 3 days prior to workshop.

HEIGHTS AREA GENERAL MEETING
October 16 (7:30 pm - 9:30 pm)
Unity of Greater Cleveland, 3350 Warrensville Ctr Road, Shaker Heights, 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.

WEAVING CULTURES NURTURING FAMILIES
October 18 (9:00 am­ 4:00 pm)
Adoption Network Cleveland, 1667 East 40th St. Suite B-1, Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
A look at transracial and transcultural adoption. Open to the public. RSVP: Registration is $40 per person, includes refreshments at each session. Seating is limited, so please call (216) 881-7511 to register early.

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

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