1. ANNOUNCEMENT

WINNER OF 'LINK-TO-US' DRAWING
Adoption.com is happy to announce Julian Tosh as the winner of the 'Link-to-Us' drawing on September 15! We would like to thank everyone who linked to us. We encourage those who have not yet done so to link to Adoption.com in order to spread the word about adoption.

ADOPTION SCREENSAVER COMPETITION
Create an adoption-related screensaver an AdoptionShop.com gift certificate. Adoption.com is sponsoring a competion to find good adoption-related screensavers. The winner will receive a $150 gift certificate and the runner-up will receive a $75 gift certificate. Winners and runners-up will have their screensavers displayed for the adoption community to download for free at http://screensavers.adoption.com. Please send your entries or questions to editor@adoptionmedia.com.

HOW HAS THE ADOPTION AND SAFE FAMILIES ACT AFFECTED YOUR WORK?
We would appreciate your help in collecting information on the implementation of the Adoption and Safe Families Act and how it is affecting the adoption process. We would like insight from a professional perspective on the impact of the Act on professional practice, and the scope of influence the Act has had on the populations it is intended to serve. Please send your responses to research@adoptionmedia.com. We will be posting the results of this inquiry in a future issue of this publication.

HAVE YOUR ADOPTION STORY IN THE NEWS
Adoption.com will like to thank the community members who have been successful in contacting their local news media with regards to National Adoption Awareness Month. We would like to encourage you to join in the effort to spread the word about adoption worldwide. Contact pr@adoption.com with your media source information, and we will work with you to bring your story to completion.

SEEKING CANADIAN ADOPTEES
The CTV youth documentary series 21c is looking for adoptees who are searching for loved ones lost through adoption and who believe that adoption records should be open. The documentary hopes to explore the difficulties involved in obtaining information about oneself and one's family when there has been an adoption. As the program focuses on young Canadians, we are looking for participants under the age of 30. If you would be interested in sharing your search and views on adoption, please e-mail editor@adoptionmedia.com. You can check out the show online at: http://www.21c.ca.

NEW FORUM FOR ADOPTION PRODUCT REVIEWS
Forums.Adoption.com has a new section where members of the adoption community can share their reviews of adoption-related products. Post your reviews at http://forums.adoption.com/f298.html.

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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.

Giving My First Son Up For Adoption - new article contributed by S.W.
It was the most difficult decision I have ever made in my life, but I have always known that it was the right decision. I was able to weigh the pros and cons of my situation and came to the answer that was best all around. I have always felt it was right. My OB doctor had some friends that wanted to adopt a child. I was told that they were a loving couple and would give my son a good home. That is what I wanted for my child, because I knew that I could not offer him the chance for a good life at that point in my life. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=332

Birth Mom Still Searching - new article contributed by E.C.
As a mom, even though she has not been with me physically, I have worried about whether her emotional needs were being met, let alone being cared for otherwise. I have worried about how she felt about being adopted and the person who put her there. Every time I saw or heard about a young woman being abused or one who had died, I asked, "Was she mine?" When the WTC was attacked and the planes crashed in Washington DC and Pennsylvania, could she have been there? http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=333

Truly A Blessing - new article contributed by Tamala M. White
With the narrowed down list, I wrote a letter to each and every person on the list, still not knowing if my son was even on the list. I received emails and letters from the ones that were not but wished me the best in my search and who said they would pray for me in my search. These we people who didn't even know me. I was clearing off my desk at the end of the day, and my cell phone rang. I said, Hello! The scared light voice said, " Hi! This is Zac." I didn't know any Zac, so I paused and said, Where do I know you from? Zac replied, December 7, 1984.Tears ran down my face; my heart has never beat so fast, and the first thing I asked was if he was ok. He replied yes. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=334

Finding Danny - new article contributed by Debbie A.
When I was 47 years old my son gave me a computer and I was searching on it and found a web site that a lady (Great Person) had and I emailed her and she had me to send her my story and she posted it. That was on August14, 1999.I kept checking my email to see if there was anything there, no luck. Then on October 7, 1999 I got an email from Renee (the great Lady) and she said are you sitting down and I said, "yes why?" and she said "I have an email for you". Lo and Behold it was from a man that said "I do know the whereabouts of Boyh Linda (my oldest sister) and her mother. I am Lindas 1/2brother as we share the same birth mother. Both are well. I was so excited I couldn't type. Then came more emails and to make a long story short We had our union on October22, 1999 and I then met my birth mother and my brothers and sisters. I learned I have not 5 but 9 brothers and sisters. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=335

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

Holt Matches Children with Iowa Families (IA)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.kwwl.com/Global/story.asp?S=1457810&nav=2IfuIC6C

Florida Adoption Agency Investigated in Costa Rican Baby Bust (Costa Rica)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/news/world/6888473.htm

Woman Responsible for Adoption, Court Says (IA)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.dmregister.com/news/stories/c4788993/22340632.html

Child Therapy Experts to Discuss Adoption Aids (PA)
http://www.post-gazette.com/localnews/20030925attachlocal4p4.asp

For Some Columbine Parents, Adoption One Step Toward Healing (CO)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.missoulian.com/articles/2003/09/29/news/mtregional/news06.txt

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

ADOPTIONS ARE MADE IN HEAVEN
This book is a fairy-tale story of how God planned out adoption and how He makes it possible. The book tells the story of adoption. When God sees that many people are brokenhearted because they cannot have children, He gathers his host of angels. He assigns them as His messengers who will sow seeds in these people's hearts. Even though they cannot have children of their own, they can adopt kids who also need their love.

For more information on this book, visit http://adoptionshop.com/cgi-bin/products/ADP32121.html.

Find 1,400+ 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. SUCCESSFUL ADOPTION

We just returned from Texas with our little angel and wanted to let you know how blessed we feel to have found ParentProfiles.com. We put our profile up in January, and ironically our daughter's birthmom saw it then. She didn't contact us until July, a month and a half before giving birth. She has blessed us with the most beautiful little girl who we have named Victoria Kathleen ("Kathleen" to honor the special person who gave her life). She was born on September 3, 2003 and weighed 7lbs, 3 oz I was able to be in the delivery room and even got to cut the cord!! We met many members of Victoria's birthfamily and hope to be able to maintain contact with them as she grows. This adoption has been better than we ever could have imagined, and it would never have been possible without you. We will be eternally grateful!! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Janine, Glenn and William from NY

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

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7. FEATURED WAITING CHILD

Legally free, Austin is a very loving little boy who readily seeks out hugs from his significant adults. At the time of Austin's birth, his teenage mother was abusing alcohol and drugs, which he was exposed to in utero. Austin and his older brother, Alex came into foster care in 1999 due to extreme neglect. Their social worker is interested in talking with any families who are interested in adopting the boys together. They have three siblings who are already in permanent placements. Next fall, Austin will be in a special education, self-contained classroom due to his previous behavioral problems. At home, Austin needs structure and routine, and rules, expectations, and consequences that are very clear, concrete, and consistent.

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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8. ADOPTION GEM

9. ADOPTION BUZZ

Birthparents Discuss What They Wish Their Child's Adoptive Parents Would Say To Them: - What Can We Do for Our Birthmother to Help Her Through This?
http://forums.adoption.com/t115158.html

Making Contact: - Contact by Letter or Phone?
http://forums.adoption.com/t112590.html

Adopting After Infertility: - Avoiding Fertility Treatments Altogether and Adopting
http://forums.adoption.com/t106614.html

General Adoptive Parent Support: - Contested Step-Parent Adoption
http://forums.adoption.com/t115981.html

Birthmother Support: - Only 17...Need Help!
http://forums.adoption.com/t108538.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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10. ADOPTION SITE SPOTLIGHT

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

Although relative adoptions seem simple, that is not entirely true, because they still have almost all of the elements of a non-relative adoption, plus a few additional issues that are not present in other adoptions. Visit RelativeAdoption.com to find more information on adopting a family member.

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

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11. 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 Latvia.

Latvia is located in Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Estonia and Lithuania. As of July 2001, its population was 2,385,231. The ethnic groups of the country are Latvian 56.5%, Russian 30.4%, Byelorussian 4.3%, Ukrainian 2.8%, Polish 2.6%, other 3.4%.

To learn more about the Latvia's government, geography, and communication information, or its history, visit Latvia.Adoption.com.

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12. JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT

GRANDMA AND GOD ARE ALIKE

My grandson was visiting one day when he asked, "Grandma, do you know how you and God are alike?"

I mentally polished my halo while I asked, "No, how are we alike?"

"You're both old," he replied.

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

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13. FEATURED ADOPTION PROFESSIONAL

Adoption by Gentle Care
Columbus, OH
Phone: (614) 469-0007
amyc@adoptgentlecare.com

We offer complete birthparent services, paid medical expenses, open or confidential adoptions, and 24 hour availability. Design your adoption by choosing an adoptive family, speaking with them on the phone, and/or meeting with them in person.

Services: Adoption Agencies Home Studies

For more information on Care to Adopt at law, visit http://www.AdoptionbyGentleCare.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.

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14. ADOPTIONSHOP.COM PICK

The English American - Only $19.95

Adopted British comedian Alison Larkin's hit one-woman show, "The English American", is a hilarious poignant comedy based on Alison's search for, and reunion with, her American birth mother in Bald Mountain, Tennessee. In this extraordinary multi-role performance, Alison plays her English adoptive mother, her American birth mother, and herself. The show premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Assembly Rooms in August, 2000, to packed houses and high critical acclaim. Following popular demand, the audio of Alison's performance is finally available on CD.

For more information and ordering instructions, visit http://adoptionshop.com/cgi-bin/products/ADP00966.html.

For more adoption products, visit AdoptionShop.com.

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15. 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:

Hello I am the birth mother of a now 18-year-old adoptee. He was able to locate (me)through one of the adoption search sites only 2 weeks after his 18th birthday. I had filled out all kinds of internet profiles on myself in hopes that he would one day find me. I dont think that he or I had any idea that it would be so easy for him to find me. Once he did find me, however, we exchanged photos and messages through email and had two phone conversations that I thought went rather well.

Well, those few conversations took place in June, and Ive not heard from him since. Ive not hounded him or anything of that sort. After getting two e-mails bumped back to me (stating that his address was no longer an open account) and two phone calls that he did not return, I stopped trying to contact him again. We never got the chance to meet in person but our phone conversations were very special to me, and I think to him as well. My question, basically, is should I write to him or try to contact him in any way, or should I simply hope that he tries to find me again later in life? Let me know what you think. Thanks in advance.

Answer:

Congrats on the reunion. That honestly has to be the quickest reunion I have ever heard of. Absolutely amazing.

Now to your question. Unfortunately, it seems like he has gotten scared or overwhelmed with the reunion. I don't know your son's personality, but I can say from experience that people go through their whole lives (on both sides) and want to find the other person so badly that when they do, it is kind of like an emotional overload (especially for young people). The quickness that he found you probably surprised him more than you, since I am sure he has been told for a very long time that it will take years (if ever) to find you. To have been told that and then find you in two weeks must be a little overwhelming.

I would give him time. He is very young still. He has a lot to absorb. I think from his standpoint, it is unfortunate that he did not just tell you what was going on in his head. That way you could keep contact information current until he was ready to continue the relationship. To cancel an e-mail address and then not return phone calls won't help if he changes his mind.

All that being said, my advice is to relax (I know it's tough) and wait. You waited 18 years to find him, and now you may have to wait a little more. I would keep your information current on the sites he used to find you, as he will surely use those again if/when he's ready. Do that, and wait. Don't call him or leave him messages. He has made a choice at this point, and now the ball is in his court. Be happy you had that brief time with him. There are many of us who won't even get that.

Good luck and God bless,

DB

Question:

I am 28 years old. I have never questioned my adoption, because I feel that I'm where God wants me to be. My adoptive parents have always been very open and have always offered to help me find my biological parents. My adoption isn't something I think about very often because my adoptive family is my family. I don't remember when they told me, it's just always been a fact of my life. I've never wanted to find my biological parents, as I figure they had their reasons for putting me up for adoption, etc.

Recently, my husband's (step sister) found her. We never knew she had put her daughter up for adoption. She didn't talk about it because it was painful. Her daughter was literally taken from her, and she wasn't allowed to have any contact with her. Anyway, it's just made me think about my biological parents. Have they tried to look for me? Would they want me to find them? Does my birth father even know about me? Do I have siblings? The medical history would be nice to know also. I'm also having feelings of disloyalty to my adoptive parents if I did pursue finding them. I wouldn't want to hurt them; it's not that important to me. I don't know that I've asked a specific question. I guess I just want some advice from someone who may have thought the same things. Thank you!

Answer:

I think that is great that your adoptive parents have been so supportive of you and continue that support. I have received backlash to previous responses regarding the advisement of young adults to talk to their adoptive parents about searching (at least over the positioning of my response). However, in this case, I believe I can honestly tell you that your adoptive parents will not feel betrayed with your desire to search. They offered to help you. They would not have done that if they didn't intend to. I believe your parents have been waiting since the day they brought you home to have that conversation with you.

Your situation sounds much like mine, with the exception of the fact that I do have a desire to search. My adoptive parents have told me since day one about my adoption and have always offered to help me. I had the same feeling you did about betrayal and hurting their feelings, because they have been my family and because of them, I am who I am. Once I talked to them, however, and reassured them of that fact, they were very open and the dialogue that ensued was very helpful.

Be tactful in the way you discuss it, but I truly believe you should have a conversation with your adoptive parents. Expect it to be a little uncomfortable for all involved, but you will be happy you did.

As always, good luck to you in your conversation (should you have it) and your search (should you try)...

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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16. SPEAK OUT

I'm a 47-year-old grandfather who is adopting his 1-1/2 year old granddaughter and also raising his two grandsons. I receive Adoption Week e-Magazine, and I just wanted to say thank you for your e-mail, all the very very interesting information your magazine provided me and places of contact that were provided. All the information helped me very much through the times I needed it. Thank you so much. Your information is the best ever, the James family - Jordan, Anthony, Savannah

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I was 16 when I had a son. My parents put me in a home and made me give him up. Later in life, I had 3 more sons. I always wondered and tried so hard to find my son; there was always a part of my life missing and hurting for him. I had my last 3 sons by my husband Wayne; I met him before I knew I was pregnant with my first. Even though the baby was not his, he stood behind me and wanted to marry me. My parents said no, I was "too young" and could not keep the baby. I searched through sites and United Way and only got a little information.

Well, my husband got cancer and died Jan. 5, 2002. I got a phone call from a lady that called herself a search angel. She had seen my name on a Texas adoption site, called me on March 3, 2002, and found my son. We united on March 5, 2002, two months to the day my husbad passed away. My husband knew how much I wanted this, and I got my miracle finally after thirty years. We are together all the time, and there is so much love. So, if anyone needs help, let my angel help you; in a matter of days, you will get your miracle. God bless, Rosean Dean

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I have been trying to find my son, but I have had no success in my search. He is special: he was born with Downs Syndrome. He is 19 now, if he is still living. My health is failing, and my only wish is that I find him. Doctors have no clue as to what is wrong with me either; I have lost the use of my legs. He has a brother and a sister. Someone help a broken-hearted mother in Illinois. Thank you, Teresa (teresawoolard61604@msn.com)

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I was born on January 12, 1985 in Lee Memorial Hospital in Fort Meyers, Florida. I am a female, and I going to be 19 on my next birthday. I went home from the hospital 2 days later with my adoptive parents. I am looking for my birth mother, but so far I have not had any luck. I would really like to find you before I go off to college and start the next phase of my life. I want to fill the hole in my heart. I can be reached at RJPOD1@msn.com

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I am looking for my father, or any relatives I might have. I was born September 14, 1944 to Marjorie Mae Allen. My father's name is Louis Stern, which Louis may be spelled Lewis. He was in the Service and was stationed in Saint Louis Missouri. Maybe even someone who knew him will read this. - Greta7016@msn.com.

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Hi all, the adoption situation in Tajikistan is again unstable for the children in need of loving families and homes. I wanted to give you some background information on a specific situation in Tajikistan and ask for help in helping these children, current and future, become adopted.

Recently, there was a little girl in Tajikistan that has been adopted by an American family. The court preceding took place and the adoption was finalized. The mother traveled from the US to Almaty to pick up her beautiful little girl, but was not permitted to leave the country with her daughter. All paperwork has been processed, including the Visa, etc. The major of the city of Khundjand has come forward in an attempt to stop international adoptions of Tajikistan children stating that "it is better for the children to die in Tajikistan, then to give them up to the United States". This is an atrocity and such an blatant violation of human rights. In effort to draw attention to this atrocity and help the children of Tajik, we have worked with a children's advocacy group and drafted a letter that we hope many (hundreds) of people will sign and send to the congressmen of their district, as well as the White House (president@whitehouse.gov and vice.president@whitehouse.gov and the US Embassy in Tajikistan (reception@amemb.tajik.net).

It is very important that we get this letter to as many people as possible. Can you please get this information to as many people as possible, along with the attachment, in an attempt to draw necessary attention to this matter. I am trying to get this letter to as many adoptive families, church groups, etc. as possible. I think you will agree that this letter is well written and effective in getting the point across. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you very much for any assistance you provide in this matter. Tracy http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=336

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I am searching for my birth mother and/or older half sister. I was born 10/29/63 at Denver General Hospital in Denver CO. I was relinquished for adoption on 12/16/63. My birth mother's name is Sandra K. Warren, age 22 on 10/29/63. Any information would be helpful, especially medical history. Please contact me at debra_jo_stevens@yahoo.com. Thank you.

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I am looking for information about Dorothy Kendrigan - adopted name. I was adopted in Mass, and I was born on Sept. 23, 1941. I beleive I was around 2 years at age of adoption. My adopted parents were Elouise Rita and David Kendrigan. I don't know my birth parent's name. I could have been adopted from a Catholic orphange. Anyone who may have imformation, please contact me at brd322@netzero.com

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Hello, I was wondering, if anyone had any information, on finding adopted kids? I have been looking for my niece and nephews for 10 years. They lived in Kansas when they were taken from their mother, so I do not know if they were even adopted, or lived in an orphanage. I have gone to all search web-sites and plastered my name and addresss everywhere, hoping I would hear something. I also know that by Kansas law, they give their records to them when they turn 18. The oldest two are already out of the system, and I have gone through the DHS and put records in their file. What do I do now? Their mother was murdered a year after they were taken away, and their father died May 15, 2001. So we are the only family they have left. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Sandra Mckown

P.S. The kids have the same last names, unless they were adopted, and had their names changed: Crystal Lee Mckown, Sean Paul Mckown, David Albert Mckown, & Richard Alexander Mckown.

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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17. ADOPTION POETRY

BEFORE I WAS A MOM...

Before I was a Mom...
I made and ate hot meals...
I had unstained clothing...
I had quiet conversations on the telephone.

Before I was a Mom...
I slept in as late as I wanted...
And never worried about how late I went to bed...
I brushed my hair every day.

Before I was Mom...
I cleaned my house every day...
I never tripped over toys in the middle of the night...
I never forgot words to lullabies.

Before I was a Mom...
I didnt worry whether or not my plants were poisonous...
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom...
I had never been thrown up on...
pooped on
spit on
chewed on
peed on
or pinched on by tiny fingers.

Before I was a Mom...
I had complete control of my thoughts...
My body
My mind
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom...
I never held down a screaming child so the doctor can give shots...
I never looked into teary eyes and cried...
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin...
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom...
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didnt want to put him down...
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldnt stop the hurt...
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much...
I never knew you could love someone so much that you just met for the first time...
I never knew just how much I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom...
I didnt know the feeling of having my heart outside my body...
I didnt know how special it would feel to feed a hungry baby...
I didnt know that bond between a Mother and her child.

Before I was a Mom...
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was ok...
I had never known the warmth...
the joy
the love
the heartache
the satisfaction
the total fulfillment of being a Mom.
I didnt know I was capable of feeling so much...Before I was a Mom.

Copyright C 2001 Cheri Kemp
I wrote this about my son Michael. We were blessed with him through the fost/adopt program. He is and will always be the light of my life.

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 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:

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 CEUs 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.

ONE-DAY INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION SEMINAR
October 4 (9:30 am - 4:30 pm)
Dillon International Office, 3227 E. 31st Street, Tulsa, OK
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. Facilities do not provide childcare. To register, email bev@dillonadopt.com, call (918) 749-4600, or visit http://www.dillonadopt.com/Seminars%20and%20Workshops.htm for details

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 CEUs 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 - Information Meeting
October 11 (10:00 am - 2:00 pm)
Whites Chapel Methodist Church, Southlake, TX
Great Wall China Adoption
Learn about China's adoption program from start to finish. Meet families who have already completed their China adoption dreams. Founder, Snow Wu, will be on hand to meet and answer your questions. Seating is limited and lunch will be provided. Cost is $7.00 per person. Register online at http://www.gwcadopt.org/wsregister.htm or call (512) 323.9595 x2510.

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

ABC'S OF INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION
October 14 (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)
First United Methodist Church at 6701 JFK Blvd, North Little Rock, AR
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 Kimberly Alls at (501) 791-9300, email DillonArkansas@dillonadopt.com, call (918) 749-4600, or visit http://www.dillonadopt.com/Seminars%20and%20Workshops.htm for details.

TELLING THE TRUTH TO YOUR ADOPTED CHILD
October 16 (6:00 pm 9:00 pm)
Berea Childrens Home, 303 E. Bagley, Berea
Adoption Network Cleveland
Presenter: Cheryl Reber
RSVP: Free workshop. Foster parent training certificates and social work/counselor CEUs 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.

ABC'S OF INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION
October 18 (10:00 am - 11:30 am)
Christ Presbyterian Church, 350 Henley Road, Richmond, IN
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 (765) 965-1195, email Karin@dillonadopt.com, or visit http://www.dillonadopt.com/Seminars%20and%20Workshops.htm for details.

INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION SUPPORT MEETING
October 22 (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. Note: Due to Holidays in November and December, the next meeting will be January 28, 2004.

THE LIFEGIVERS FESTIVAL
October 23 - 26
Higgins Lake, Michigan
Open Adoption Insight
The Lifegiver's Festival is a conference/retreat specifically designed for birthparents in open adoptions. It strives to provide a safe, nurturing place where birthparents can learn, connect and discuss issues most important to them. It also is a place where birthparents can find honor, respect and support for their role in their child's life. For more information go to: http://openadoptioninsight.org/lifegiver.htm

WEAVING CULTURES NURTURING FAMILIES
October 25 (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.

ONE-DAY INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION SEMINAR
October 25 (9:30 am - 4:30 pm)
St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 6680 Crestway Road, San Antonio, TX
Dillon International, Inc.
International adoption can be a wonderful experience. Meet adoptive families, their children, and staff members of Dillon International, Inc. This one day seminar is from. The cost is $60.00 for a married couple and $50.00 for a single adult applicant. The fee covers lunch and seminar materials. Facilities do not provide childcare. To register, email bev@dillonadopt.com, call (918)749-4600, or visit http://www.dillonadopt.com/Seminars%20and%20Workshops.htm for details.

ABC'S OF INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION
October 25 (10:00 am - 11:30 am)
Dillon International Office at 3227 E. 31st Street, Tulsa, 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 (918) 749-4600, email info@dillonadopt.com, or visit http://www.dillonadopt.com/Seminars%20and%20Workshops.htm for details.

LAKE COUNTY GENERAL MEETING
October 28 (7:30 pm - 9:30 pm) Deepwood North Apartments, Rental Office/Community Room, and 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.

NATIONAL ADOPTION MONTH LUNCHEON
November 1 (12:30 pm - 3:30 pm)
Fiorillo’s Italian Ristorante
Silicon Valley Concerned United Birthparents (CUB)
Co-sponsors: SearchFinders of California, American Adoption Congress
Speaker: Nancy Verrier Author of "The Primal Wound" Californians touched by adoption and all adoption professionals are invited. Each attendee will receive an autographed copy of Nancy's eagerly anticipated new book on adoptee healing being published in Oct. Tickets: $45/person prior to Oct. 15, $50/person after Oct. 16 and before cut-off of October 28 (advance reservation only; no ticket sales at door). Reservations with check or money order should be mailed to: Delayn Curtis, 721 Cedar Dr., Watsonville, CA 95076. For additional info, e-mail aliciakla@earthlink.net.

SHARED CONNECTIONS: BRINGINGING BIRTHMOMS AND ADOPTIVE MOMS TOGETHER
November 13th - 16th
Higgins Lake, Michigan
Open Adoption Insight
Shared Connections is a conference/retreat that strives to help birthmothers and adoptive mothers understand each other by discussing the similarities as well as the differences in our experiences. For more information go to: http://openadoptioninsight.org/shared_connections.htm.

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

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