1. ANNOUNCEMENT

ARE YOU ATTENDING NACAC?
Northern American Councel for Adoptable Children will be meeting in Vancouver August 7-9. If you are planning to attend the conference, we would love to meet you. Please look for our exhibit in the foyer, or contact Shirlee Davidson at (800) 872-3678 or e-mail shirlee@adoptionmedia.comto schedule a meeting time in advance.

ADOPTABLEKIDS EXCHANGE - SIGN-UP AT NACAC!
Please stop by our exhibit in the foyer for information on how your state can be included in the AdoptableKids photolisiting on AdoptableKids.com. This is a free community service. Our staff sets up your listings and updates your photos monthly at no charge. Can't make NACAC? Then please e-mail lanae@adoptionmedia.com.

ADOPTION EXPERTS, ADD YOUR BIO TO THE NEW ADOPTION SPEAKERS DATABASE
Adoption.com is building a database of experts who are avaialable to speak at adoption-related conferences and seminars. If you would like to add your information to this database that will be published at AdoptionSpeakers.com, please contact sandy@adoptionmedia.com.

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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.

Jennifer Lynne - new article by Mariann Hines
They told her that they were going through and saw this cemetery and wondered if she knew any of the local people with this name. The lady took down some information and did some investigating on her own after they left. Well this lady told another lady about this situation, and she then told a girl I used to work with and this lady said, "I know the mother." http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=297

Adoption Ontario - new article by Colette Latour
My sister adores her adoptive parents, and that's great. My mother knows that she will never be called mother, but that there can be a special relationship between them and that too is great. People like to make problems where there is none to be made. Social services say we have to understand the hard times they have had, well I'm saying we do, but we have had hard times too knowing they exist and we have spent our lives being the victimes too. It's not fair. All the children pay for the adults' errors. It shouldn't be. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=298

Happy Birthday, Haley - new article by Kay Green
When I began the journey to Haley I had no idea what it would really hold. I did not know about the whole world of adoption friends that I would find online. Open adoption was a scary unknown thing that became a delightful gift to us. We gained new family in Nebraska that will always be a treasured part of our lives. Preciouskids.org/ was birthed in the journey to Haley. I get to help other families everyday to find their forever children. My life is incredibly richer by having Haley as my daughter but also my being part of the adoption world.http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=299

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

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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

From Russia, With Love (FL)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2003/07/15/earlyshow/living/parenting/main563264.shtml

More Black Women Adopting Solo (TX)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.wcfcourier.com/articles/2003/07/16/news/lifestyles/9e5411c0558efb6c86256d640061f3e8.txt

Mother Abandons Baby, Gives 5-month-old to Officer (TX)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/news/nation/6290975.htm

FAMILY: A Meeting of Hearts (OH)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.grandforks.com/mld/grandforks/news/6320521.htm

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

DAUGHTER FROM AFAR: A FAMILY'S INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION STORY
An adoptive mother shares her true story about the sadness and joys of the long process to adopt an abandoned Chinese baby girl. Sarah Woodard reveals with humor, sensitivity and honesty the adoption process, the journey to bring home her daughter and the ultimate adventure of becoming a mother. It is an absorbing story, beautifully written, in which two different cultures combine and illuminate each other, culminating in a heart-warming ending. But, as this new family is being born, it is really only the beginning.



For more information on this book, visit http://adoptionshop.com/cgi-bin/products/ADP00522.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.

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5. MEET NEW HOPEFUL ADOPTIVE PARENTS

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

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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




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6. FEATURED WAITING CHILD

Marquis is a charming boy and is intelligent and curious about life. Marq a natural leader and others gravitate towards his energy. He is very funny and likes to talk with adults. Marq makes friends easily and cares for those around him. Marq loves animals. He plays well with other children his age. Marq can be moody and sulky when he does not get his way. He can be manipulative an is quite good at it. Marq is attending weekly therapy to address his history of neglect and abuse. He does fairly well in school academically, but can act out in class when bored. Marq needs a family that is willing to see through his shell to the hurt little boy that is inside. He would do well in a one or two parent home with older siblings. He needs an active family that will support his sports interests. He needs a family that will be able to see through his manipulation and set clear boundaries as to what is acceptable in the home.

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

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7. ADOPTION BUZZ

General Adoptive Parent Support: - BM Changed Mind
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t109000.html

International Adoption General Issues: - Considering Time on African Adoptions...
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t108982.html

Foster Child Adoption Support: - I Have No Idea What to Expect
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t108695.html

Poetry: - Uninvited
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t106363.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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8. ADOPTION GEM

9. ADOPTION SITE SPOTLIGHT

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

Are you Christian and needing support and information in your adoption journey? Come join us at the NEW Christian Adoptions website to share your faith journey with others who understand and can support you. Start each day on the main page with the daily meditation by Jody, a reunited adoptee, at ChristianAdoptions.com.

Read articles by adoptive parent, birth family and adoptee or send us your own story to publish:
The Road Less Traveled by Holly, adoptive parent and Reliquishing Me by Courney, birthmother.

Find support for yourself on our forums at AdoptionForums.com.

If you prefer listserv support via email, please join Christian Adoptee Fellowship listserv (for Adoptees) or Christian Adoption listserv.

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

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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 Honduras.

As of July 2001, Honduras had a population of 6,406,052. Honduras is located in Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Nicaragua and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Nicaragua.


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

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11. JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT

WHO AM I?

During the family celebration of my young niece's birthday, the birthday girl decided to display her knowledge of the guests' names. After she pointed at some of the guests and announced their name, I tested her knowledge of my name: "And who am I?"

The three year-old looked at me quizzically and replied, "Do you have to ask?"

Contributed by: Kathy Stroppa

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

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12. FEATURED ADOPTION PROFESSIONAL

Victoria J. Schroeder
Delafield, WI
Phone: (262) 646-2054
vschroeder@adoptionattorneys.org

Prividing legal services to birth parents and adoption agencies for over 20 years. Experienced in domestic adoption, international adoption, agency adoption, independant adoption, stepparent adopiton, relative adoption, interstate adoption.

Services: • Adoption Attorneys • Stepparent Adoption

For more information on Victoria J. Schroeder, visit http://adoptiondirectory.com/schroeder/.

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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13. ADOPTIONSHOP.COM PICK

Gold Name Bracelet - Only $34.95


The perfect gift for a special mom, aunt, grandma, birthmother or friend. This delicate bracelet is made with clear Swarovski crystals and rose pearls, along with gold and Bali Silver, and gold bead accents. Personalize with up to six letters of a name or initials.

For more information and ordering instructions, visit http://adoptionshop.com/cgi-bin/products/NOL00003.html.

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

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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:

Hi,

I am a birth mother of a 12-year-old girl. She was placed in a wonderful family. I have had recent phone conversation with both of her parents. They are wonderful people, who love and adore their daughter. This was supposed to be a private adoption. Now it is open, in the sense that I know their names and I know what city they live in. We all live in the same county (it is a very small world). I have not met them, but they invited me to watch a performance their daughter was in. I did go, and I'm glad I did.

My question is this, am I out of line to call them? I looked in our local phone book and their number was listed, I have not called. I do not wish to speak to their daughter, I want to talk to her mother again. Their address was also listed, so if a phone call is out of line would a letter be o.k? I don't want to be pushy, but I don't want to seem uninterested either. I am in uncharted waters. Adoptions seem to have their own set of rules for private and open. I don't know how to describe this anymore; is this private or open? I never intended to contact them ever, but I feel they have graciously opened the door for communication, but I'm scared. Any advice would be very welcome and is needed right now.

FYI, the attorney who handled the adoption gave them my phone number and my name with my consent. Thank You and God Bless Birth Mothers everywhere!!!

- J. S.

Answer:

J. S.

Thank you very much for your question. I think it is wonderful that you had the opportunity to speak with the adoptive parents, and that they were so open with you. Now, to your question.

This is always a touchy area to be in; however, I do not see a problem with contacting them in your situation, especially, since you have spoken with them in the recent past. I assume they did not tell you not to contact them in the future. I would, however, tread lightly. I think since you have the address, sending a letter first to the parents explaining your intentions is better than a phone call (just in case your daughter were to answer the phone when you called). I would include your email address and current contact information (if it has changed since the attorney gave it to them).

I do not see anything wrong with your intentions, and who knows, there is always a possibility that if you keep the lines of communication open, the adoptive parents will have something to give their daughter when she starts asking questions about you. I think this is all so wonderful. You have truly found yourself in a great situation with the adoptive parents of your child being so open with you.

If you are careful about the way you explain your intentions, I do not see any reason why she would refuse a conversation with you. I must say, however, I am saying all of this based on your email to me. The tone of your email leads me to believe that the adoptive parents trust your intentions by allowing you to see your daughter perform. Nothing in life is for sure, but I think your situation sounds like a positive one.

To sum it up, I believe you are fine in sending a letter, including your email address (so you don't have to wait for snail mail), and be careful in how you explain your intentions. Good luck to you and I would love to hear how it turns out.

DB

Question:

I released my birth daughter for adoption, to the county, at birth. This was because I came from a highly emotionally and physically abusive family, and both I and my father have mood swings. I was finally diagnosed with Bipolar II (mostly severe depression) at the age of 54. I am now 61 years old.

My birth daughter went through a search organization about 10 years ago. This organization had no concept that I was a human being. To them and to her, she had "adoptee's rights," and I had no rights. She came with the idea that I would be a wealth of biological and genetic info. Which I am not, because of all the secrecy in my extended family.

It came to be a huge problem with this young woman invading our family, as I mistakenly introduced her to my parents and siblings, and my parents -- in their usual treatment of me as insignificant -- wrote a letter to the entire extended family announcing her existence! This embarrassed me terribly. I had told them it was a private matter, but they conveniently "forgot."

Anyway, I no longer have contact with my bio-daughter. She turned out to be negligent of me -- she visited me, and in MY house, spent HER time on MY telephone (her expense) talking long distance to her friends at home. Would not look at me, or speak to me.

Then, I went to her wedding, a long way off -- hundred of miles by train and bus -- and she was very inconsiderate of me there, too. Spent all her time on the phone with her friends! I got along great with her adoptive parents. I was so hurt and ANGRY at this young woman, who had not only broken the law to find me, but had also tricked and deceived my ex-husband and parents to get my telephone number, and had initially called me at 10:00p.m., causing a blowup between myself and my then husband. The whole thing was even more of a disaster than what I have described.

I have never had regrets that I found a wonderful home for this girl. In fact, I would have had an abortion, had they been legal. Her biological father was a criminal type -- a pathological liar and shoplifter -- as was her biological uncle, who had served time in prison for embezzlement. I had never had any experience with people like this before, and was only 21 y/o when I met up with them. They were sons of a colleague, and I was an elementary teacher at the time, so I thought I was going to meet honorable sons of a teacher. Not so.

So my big question is, do you hear from others with bipolar disorder who have given children for adoption? I still hear that "mother's love is like no other" and this was surely not my case, although I certainly did feel mother love twice when I held her as a baby, and once when she came walking towards me at the railroad station after she tracked me down. So it's real, all right. But I have had no feelings of loss, knowing I am a lost person myself -- can barely keep myself alive, and was afraid I would harm a child of my own, so did the best I could for her by finding her a beautiful home, via the county. She has no appreciation for this.

ElderBerry

Answer:

ElderBerry:

I am very sorry to hear about your situation. Not all reunions or searches end up happily, and your situation is the reason that I believe sometimes a completely closed and sealed adoption (on a case by case basis) is warranted.

I wish I could help you in all areas and aspects of you situation, but I cannot. In fact, I am struggling in general with answering this at all. To answer your immediate question, yes, I have heard of birthmothers with bi-polar; however, I would not theorize that your bi-polar disorder stems from the adoption. I am not an expert in that field, but my experience with that particular disorder leads me to believe that bi-polar is something you're born with. In fact, in most cases I would venture to say that the disorder is exacerbated by the adoption process and the feelings of loss (as it still would have been had you carried through with the abortion). It is hard enough for people to deal with adoption on all sides of the triad, but with a disorder like bi-polar, it can be considerably worse to say the least.

I wouldn't say your daughter has zero appreciation for what you did for her. She just may be shoving it deep within herself. Sometimes, it is easier to turn it into a blaming game than to just be happy for being on this earth. It is tough, and I am sorry your daughter treated you like she did. I can't say for sure, as I do not know your daughter, but I would assume she did not have malicious intentions. Otherwise, she wouldn't have gone through the trouble of finding you. It was probably just her way of handling the circumstances; however, that does not justify her actions towards you.

I commend you for attending the wedding. That must have been very hard, but at the same time, even though your daughter was not as cordial you as would have liked, it must have felt good to know she was doing well for herself.

ElderBerry, please don't be so hard on yourself. You deserve a metal for placing your child for adoption and doing the right thing, especially, in your case. You did the right thing, and no one can take that away from you - not even your daughter. The only one who can take that away from you, is you. Don't let yourself. Because of you, a couple who could not have children otherwise, were able to raise a child. Because of you, there is a very happily married and in-love man who married your daughter. They will have children of their own, which without you, would never have been born. The possibilities are endless. One of those kids could grow up and cure cancer, and without you, they would never have been allowed the opportunity to live on this earth.

Good luck to you and please, write back soon to let me know how you are doing.

DB

Response to DB:

Hi - and thanks for your honest response. The reason my father did not have any desire to find anything about his birth parents was because he was a drug addict and had no desire for anything else - including family. The only reason he had anything to do with me was because he thought I would give him money - and when I said no, that was the end of our relationship.

I will see if my request for non-identifying information comes through - and if the courts do not respond, my search will be done. I am not going to spend half of my life running in circles. Thanks Again! - DP

DB's Response:

DP,

Great to hear back from you. I think many of our readers misinterpreted my response to your original email. I am not against searches in the least. I am searching for my biological mother. I just truly believe that all situations are different and some people don't want to be found, and others don't want to search. There are certainly situations where information should be kept sealed and identities protected (i.e., when one party - an adoptive parent - does not want the biological parents contacting the child). This was the case when I was young. My adoptive mother was scared to death that my biological mother would come back and challenge the adoption in court (this was during the time when this type of thing was somewhat prominent).

I think if you want to have medical information, that is fine. It may not be as complete as you would like, but it is good to have for your children.

I write this article every week, and I read many letters from many people. To be honest, as many letters as I get, they all seem to run along the same paths. Each situation has its own unique detail to it, but the foundation is the same. I've heard from people where the outcome was great, and others where the outcome was disastrous. When I read someone's question about a situation and the details are similar to those in a past disastrous circumstance, I advise to the best of my experience. Which is one reason why I advised you the way that I did.

You and I have bounced a couple of emails back and forth, which I have not included in this response, but what I will say about them is that ultimately the choice is yours to make. Do what you feel is right. I am not a psychologist with 15 years of schooling and experience behind me. I am justone person putting myself out there providing a listening ear and some advice based on the experiences people share with me in their emails, as well as my own. I am wrong sometimes, but I do not answer these questions without support and without putting thought into them.

I appreciate your support of the article and all of our reader's support. I am glad you found value in my advice, but do what's in your heart, and I believe you will be fine.

Good luck and God bless,

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.

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15. SPEAK OUT

Hi, God bless you wonderful people and your site. As a birthmother, I spent years wondering how my daughter was doing. Then on May 19, 2003 I went to AdoptionRegistry.com, and in four minutes, I found my daughter. After 35 years, I couldn't stand to wait for snail mail and looked up her number in directory assistance. It was phenomenal. We chat in my game room on the computer. I have pictures of her, and she has pictures of my family. I sent her mom a thank you note for blessing my heart with a beautiful life for her. Thank you for being there. - Kathy S., Syracuse, NY

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This is to Karen Rozell: Thanks for your note concerning the response from DB to DP. I wrote a response to DB concerning the response. DB later asked if that response could be used (probably in the next issue), and I said yes. Just in case you don't read it...you see, both of my parents were drug addicts. Lord only knows why I turned out so normal. Anyway, the state has received my request for non-identifying information. They have responded stating that I should wait at least 4 months before expecting to see anything. I know that the court has received my request to open the adoption records (because I sent it certified mail), but no response from them. From what I have heard, I am not sure they will respond. I would be very excited to be able to find birth parents/family - but would completely understand (and would respect their wishes) if they didn't have the desire to meet me. I feel like I am missing a small piece of me - not people in my life, just a little piece of who I am - as silly as that may sound. Anyway, I indicated to DB that I would hope that my two requests to the state and to the courts would turn something up, but if it didn't I would have to let it rest (mostly because I don't know what else to do). But I do thank you for your response to DB's note back to me! THANKS! danip925@msn.com

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My name is Michelle Herman. I found out when I was 18 that my mother had another child 18 months after I was born and gave her up for adoption. My mother tells me it does not concern me and to just give up looking for her and that's it - no other information at all she would tell me. I have the original birth certificate and have tried a couple different ways to find her with no luck. Her name on the birth certificate was Dennis Ann Wiggins. She was born 10/2/68 in Allentown, Pennsylvania. I always wanted a sister, and knowing I have one somewhere in the world kills me not knowing her. I am now 36 and would love to find her. michelle.herman@bioscipro.com

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To whom it may concern: I am a 45-year-old man who would like to contact his birth parents. I was born 05-21-1958 in Dayton Ohio. I don't know what to do to find them. If anyone can give me some advice I would appreciate it. My e-mail address is jrroush@citynet.net. Thank you, Jeff Roush

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Hi. After expending what time and money I had available to search for my birthmother, and hitting dead end after dead end, I have all but given up ever finding my past. I have lost money on "search companies" that have gone bankrupt, spent money on companies that "guarantee" to find your person or no cost, and have done what I can on my own to find info, all to no avail. I realize I will have to pay for help, but is there anyone or any organization that can help and not send me into bankruptcy? If anyone can help me or direct me to someone who can, PLEASE contact me. Thanks. rceckman@bedford.net

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My name is Kirsten, and I'm 34 years old. I was adopted in Perrysburg, Ohio in 1969. I believe I was born in Toledo on January 8, 1969. It was a private adoption. I would like to make contact with my birthparents and/or grandparents. I am a successful commercial artist and am curious if my artistic talent was passed to me genetically. (I wouldn't mind finding out who is responsible for my weird toes either!!!) If you have any information that could help me make contact with my birth family, please email me at kdale@mo-net.com. Any communication will be held in confidence - I don't want to upset anyone's life. Thanks.

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My name is Laura Ann Wontorski (maiden name is Lucas). I gave up a girl 28 years ago on November 10, 1975 in Catholic Charities in Chicago, IL. At the time of birth, a Mrs. Umphert helped me in the adoption process. I was told nothing about the parents or the procedure, just that I did the right thing. Have always worried and wondered. If anyone has any leads, please contact me at jljln5@famvid.com. Desperately seeking Jennifer

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My name is Lisa. I am a 38-year-old female born December 22, 1964 in Cincinnati, Ohio. I am searching for my birth mother (or any birth family member), or any information about her. Although I am unaware of the hospital, my birth certificate is signed by Dr. A. G. King. If anyone has any information, please notify me via e-mail at bandwidow100@hotmail.com. Thank you, Lisa K.

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To whom it may concern: I am trying to find my birthmother but don't know what steps to take. I have very little information to go by. If you have any suggestions, please email me. I have tried a web site for adoption and have registered with them under the section that is for finding your birthparents, but that doesn't seem to work. I need help in some way. Thanks, P.D.

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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16. ADOPTION ONLINE SUPPORT GROUP REVIEW

Here's a recent post from the Michigan Searching group:

I am looking for my brother who was given up for adoption. He was born in Wayne County, MI, in 1972, and the adoption was handled through Children's Aid Society of Michigan. I haven't been able to find any current information on this agency, which leads me to believe that it may no longer be active, or even exist.

If this could be you, or if you have any information about where I should go to find the information I need to find my brother, please send an e-mail to this board...I have subscribed. T.J., if you see this....I can't wait to meet you.

Thanks for your time,
Rebecca

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.

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17. ADOPTION POETRY

A MOTHER'S LOVE

A pregnant mother with nowhere to turn,
Said "God, I do believe in you!"
Please help me and my children
Send me a sign, so I will know what to do!

At that same time, another mother cries,
As yet, another child she has now lost
Dear god, please give me another baby
For have I not yet suffered the cost?

So God looked down and heard them
As these two mothers prayed up above,
And decided to have their lives meet
So that we both could have you to love.

For I was that pregnant mother, you see,
The one who gave birth to you
Then your other mother took you in her arms
And I saw her love for you was true.

You will always have two mommies
Who love you more than you will ever know
For one loved you enough to give you life,
The other to raise you and watch you grow.

If someday you would like to meet
Your other mother that would be just fine
For even though I have not raised you
In my heart you will always be part mine

Always remember that I gave you to them
Out of a love and need for us all
Who knew Gods answers to our prayers
Would come in a package, so very small

So happy birthday, my dearest one
I am sending you all of my love
For you truly are a "GIFT OF LOVE"
Sent to us straight from above!

- "Hunter"
Poem I wrote when I gave my daughter up for adoption

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

Submit your adoption poetry to editor@adoptionmedia.com.

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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:

INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION SUPPORT MEETING - Triggers for Adoption-Related Crisis
July 23 (7:00 pm - 8:30 pm)
Euclid Public Library, Erie Room, 631 E. 222nd. St., Euclid, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Speaker: Regina Kupecky
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 us at (216) 881-7511 or on the web at http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

ADOPTION WORKSHOP FOR PARENTS- Attachment
July 24 (9:30 am - 12:30 pm)
Beech Brook, 3737 Lander Road, Pepper Pike, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Speaker: Regina Kupecky
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 days prior to workshop.

THE LIFELONG IMPACT OF ADOPTION
July 26 (1:00 - 4:00 pm)
Santa Monica College, 1900 Pico Blvd., Library Village #8, Santa Monica CA 90405
Lecture & discussion by Marlou Russell, Ph.D.
$30 per person
For more information, contact Marlou Russell, Ph.D. at (310) 829-1438, marlourussell@hotmail.com, or visit http://www.marlourussellphd.com
Marlou Russell, Ph.D. is a psychologist, adoptee, and author of Adoption Wisdom: A Guide to the Issues and Feelings of Adoption.
This class is for adult adoptees, birth parents, adoptive parents, those considering adoption, therapists, attorneys, the media, and anyone interested in the emotional and psychological aspects of adoption.

PEER SUPPORT GROUP FOR PROSPECTIVE ADOPTIVE PARENTS
July 28 (7:00 - 9:00 pm)
San Jose, California
Adoption Paths
Resolve of Northern California invites prospective adoptive parents to explore their questions and concerns about all types of adoption in an intensive eight-week support group led by Sara Lively, M.S.Ed. For more information and to register, call (831) 476-7252, or visit http://www.adoptionpaths.com.

ADOPTING FROM CHINA
August 2 (10:00 am - 2:00 pm)
Great Wall China Adoption Houston, TX
Are you interested in international adoption, but aren't sure how to get started? Would you like to learn more about China's international adoption program? If the answer is "yes" we invite you to join us for an in-depth look at China’s adoption program. To register, visit us online at http://www.gwcadopt.org/wsregister.htm or contact Diana Prause at (512)323-9595 x 2510. Seating is limited, so please register early to reserve your spot.

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.

BIRTHPARENT SUPPORT MEETING
August 6 (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. For more information, call (216) 881-7511 or visit http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

ROCKY RIVER GENERAL MEETING
August 7 (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. For more information, call (216) 881-7511 or visit http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND GENERAL MEETING
August 8 (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, call (216) 881-7511 or visit http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

AKRON GENERAL MEETING
August 13 (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. For more information, call (216) 881-7511 or visit http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

HEIGHTA AREA GENERAL MEETING
August 21 (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. For more information, call (216) 881-7511 or visit http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

LAKE COUNTY GENERAL MEETING
August 26 (7:30 pm - 9:30 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, call (216) 881-7511 or visit http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION SUPPORT MEETING
August 27 (7:00 pm - 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, call (216) 881-7511 or visit http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

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

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