The Next Few Steps

Since we have adopted before, most people assume that everything should go quicker this time since we've already filled out all the paperwork once. Unfortunately, that's not the case. We are actually filling out more paperwork this time because we are working with 2 different adoption agencies. We're working with Dillon International (the agency we used for DW's adoption) for our home study and post placement reports, and everything else goes through Children's Home Society and Family Services in Minnesota. We're in the process of mailing off background checks, getting employment verifications, getting medical forms signed by our physicians, and copying every important document imaginable...tax forms, bank statements, birth certificates, marriage license, etc. We also have to update our autobiographies and get reference letters. Once all of this paperwork is complete, then we can begin our home study.

Thank goodness a home study does NOT involve someone checking in all corners of your house for dust. The social worker comes and basically interviews the family members about their life story, how they plan to discipline, how they will deal with racial issues, why they chose to adopt, etc. At the end, the social worker does a walk through of the home to make sure it is safe. Then, she writes a report of all of this called the home study. Once this is complete, then we will officially get the acceptance paperwork to sign for HJ, which will then be forwarded to Korea. We are hoping to get to this step by the end of May, but hopefully sooner.