The Abrazo Forum: The Abrazo Forum

Looking to Adopt

Newbie central! Just starting the adoption process? Trying to figure it all out? Got words of wisdom for those who are? Post questions and get advice from those who've "been there, done that."

• Today, 06:38 AM
• In: Positive Adoption Language
• By: Dale and Amanda 

Parents-in-Waiting

Where the elite meet. Abrazo's proud Parents of Tomorrow orientation graduates exchange info, encouragement, grins and groans while awaiting Placement Day. (Remember: that's not "if?" but "when?!")

• Today, 07:04 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: GudJen 

Especially for Againers

Returning to Abrazo for a second child? or a third? or ...? Open adoption veterans have their own questions, concerns and dreams, and now, they also have their own clubhouse in which to explore them. Welcome back, old friends!

• 12 June 2010 - 03:18 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: MarceloandClaudia 

When Baby Comes Home

From entrustment (Placement Day) until adoption (Finalization Day), there's a whole new set of responsibilities and challenges, so look here for advice, reminders and support as you move closer to that court date, when you become a "forever family" for real.

• 20 July 2010 - 10:24 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: suziandben 

Joyous Journeys

On-line journals, sharing the progress of families-to-be in search of special little someones; updating friends and relatives nationwide; and heralding miraculous new arrivals and eagerly-awaited homecomings.

• Today, 09:33 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: melissamerritt 

Tears, Fears & Keeping The Faith

Adoption is a road with both scenic views and detours. Failed plans are painful losses, for would-be's and bioparents alike. But take heart! Here's a safe haven for sharing sorrows, exploring risks and finding comfort in times of uncertainty and grief.

• 18 July 2010 - 10:37 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: DPJ 

The Family Room

For the grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, and other beloved relatives of all our adoption participants. A special place for the kinfolk to query, congregate, share and celebrate, as beautiful new family trees are grafted and grown through the miracle of adoption.

• 04 May 2010 - 06:07 PM
• In: New Grands
• By: Sue Halverson 

Mi Amigos

Welcome to Alumni Hall, where successful Abrazo orientation grads who joined up, gave it their all and grew their families as a result can keep in touch via their original group; no longer in-waiting, but all parents!!

• Yesterday, 07:42 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: Brian and Cathy 

Considering Adoption?

Whether you're pregnant or considering placement for a child already born, you need friends who understand what you're going through. Find support and answers, here!

• 19 June 2010 - 06:21 AM
• In: What I Did For Love
• By: linlacor 

Pregnancy Info, From A to Z

Got questions? Know answers? Welcome to St. Abrazo Maternity Center, where you may find anything you ever wanted to know about pregnancy, birthing and thereafter-- no Medicaid or insurance needed for admission. (But please: don't rely on this site for actual medical advice, because that's something only your doctor should provide.) And when it is time to go to the hospital for real, just remember to take Abrazo's number along with you. In case you need a hug.

• 08 July 2010 - 09:21 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: Amy&Craig 

Persona Grata

Latin for "welcome person," birthparents need to know they're truly welcome in the life of the child/ren they placed. Members of Abrazo's honored birthparent sorority, make yourself at home. Share special memories. Raise burning questions. Brag on your kid/s. Ponder your future. Test drive your dreams. Whether you're a prior or present birthparent, you can find plenty of support, respect and understanding here. So come on in!

• 14 July 2010 - 07:41 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: Brian and Cathy 

UGoGrl!

For gals on the grow. An online info swap meet for the self-improvement set. Find the latest on personal empowerment. Confidence-building. Career planning. Educational opportunities. Womens' health. Ego enhancement. Relationship management. (Plus...!) Because there's still so much more to life, beyond pregnancy/adoption. And you can get there from here!

• 24 February 2010 - 07:37 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: Steven&Melissa 

For BirthFathers Only

Too often, birthfathers and adopting dads find themselves feeling somewhat left out of the adoption process-- but gathered here are fellow fathers of courage and candor. Calling all you strong, silent types: daddies matter, big time. So speak your piece and have your say. We're listening.

• 18 June 2010 - 06:57 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: 1st x grandma 

BirthGrandparents & Important Others

Being the grandparent, aunt or uncle of a child placed for adoption is never easy. Share your thoughts and feelings about what it means to support your loved one's adoption decision, finding your own place in the process, and dealing with life (and family relationships) afterwards.

• 17 July 2010 - 08:29 PM
• In: Backing Your Baby
• By: 1st x grandma 

Birthparent Blogs

Real-life reports from parents who've placed. Online diaries for those who need to explore emotions, journal journeys, mark memories, heal hurting hearts and dare to dream.

• 23 July 2010 - 12:54 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: karen&scott 

Raising Kids Today

Whether you become a parent by way of birth or adoption or marriage or other means, parenthood is a journey through life that's meant to be shared, because truly, it does take a village to raise a child. Find your way through, here.

• 21 July 2010 - 04:08 PM
• In: Our One & Only
• By: ElizabethAnn 

The Art of Childgrowing

Advice and answers about child development issues of concern to all loving parents, expertly facilitated by an experienced Mom with a doctorate in Developmental Psychology.

• 01 July 2010 - 06:16 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: LauralandCasey 

Life After Adopting

Parenting 101, and thensome! Experienced alumni of Abrazo's adoption programs swap parenting tips, questions and concerns related to child-rearing, home life and post-adoption issues.

• 27 July 2010 - 11:48 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: TRACEB 

Parenting after Placing

Whether you were already parenting before your placement occurred, or whether it's a role you've taken on since, your child's adoption may sometimes impact your parenting style in ways you may not even realize?

• 03 August 2009 - 11:16 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: kristal 

Rainbow Families

Support and affirmation for Abrazo's transracial homes and families of color.

• 30 June 2010 - 09:18 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: HeidiK 

Daddyland

Call this the End Zone for all topics paternal, the grown-up equivalent of the treehouse with the "no-girls-allowed" sign out front. There's no promise you'll keep the fairer sex out, but if you're somebody's daddy or planning-to-be, this one's for you, with no flowers or frills.

• 18 June 2010 - 07:03 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: 1st x grandma 

Heart To Heart

A meeting of great minds, across the adoption triad. Here, birthparents, adoptees, and adoptive families consult each other, walk a mile in each other's moccasins and share essential insights. Find common ground and (remember this tune?) "look at life from both sides, now."

• 09 July 2010 - 05:13 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: DPJ 

New Arrivals

Proudly presenting: the newest little members of our greater Abrazo family!

• Today, 09:05 AM
• In: Baby Announcements 2010
• By: HeidiK 

Abrazokidz Clubhouse

A kids-only fun zone just for Abrazo adoptees under the age of fourteen. No parents allowed--except as needed to take dictation for tiny folks who cannot type, yet!

• 17 January 2010 - 01:42 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: marthaj 

Kidstuff

Starring our littlest triad members, the Abrazobabes! Moms and dads, brag here about the cutest things your darlings say and do. Kids, tell the world what you think grownups need to know.

• 22 July 2010 - 10:29 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: HeidiK 

In the Know

Valuable input from, for and about those who were adopted; about the choices made on their behalf; and the impact of the choices across the lifespan.

• 08 June 2010 - 08:00 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: linlacor 

Coming Full Circle

A safe zone for teens and adults who were once adopted. Feel free to launch your own blog, seek out search & reunion info, and find unconditional love and support from others who truly do understand where you're coming from-- and wherever you may be heading.

• 20 July 2010 - 09:13 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: DPJ 

My Very First Blog

It may take awhile to fill this forum, because as brilliant as AbrazoKidz are, they may not yet have computer privileges, but for the few that do, this one's for you! Start your blog today and make it your own corner of the Forum forever.

• 23 July 2010 - 08:14 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: TRACEB 

Abrazo News

Announcements, updates, licensing information, office gossip and news from headquarters and beyond. Orientation schedules. Reunion plans. Plus links to media coverage and adoption-related websites when relevant.

• 29 July 2010 - 04:11 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: ElizabethAnn 

Abrazo's Chapel Potluck

Like an old-fashioned church dinner, you're invited in with open arms, so share your favorite inspirational verses, prayers, and recipes for faith, food and fortitude. Here, hopes spring eternal and blessings abound, so visit our spiritual oasis and celebrate the power of divine intervention.

• 22 July 2010 - 10:35 AM
• In: Prayer Requests
• By: HeidiK 

United States of Adoption

It's a virtual block party, thrown just for each forum-friendly state blest with Abrazotots, birthparents, adoptive families! Want to find some adoption neighbors closer to home? Check in, here! Just lean over the fence and post a "howdy, friend."

• 28 July 2010 - 10:25 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: TnTaylors 

About the Forum

Questions, ideas, announcements related to this discussion board. Look for announcements and updates posted by the webmaster, and contribute your own posts as well. All are welcome!

• 21 July 2010 - 03:57 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: ElizabethAnn 

Professionals' Corner

Clients exit the rollercoaster but caseworkers ride 'til retirement! This is the world's first online comfort zone for anonymous adoption professionals. Vent. Laugh. Cry. Share. Learn. This one's for you.

• 29 June 2010 - 04:54 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: ElizabethAnn 

Corner Cafe

An "adoption-free" zone for introductions, input and insights on anything but, of general interest to our Forum friends.

• 20 July 2010 - 10:29 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: suziandben 

Ancient History

Abrazo News from bygone days

• 16 February 2010 - 11:13 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: HeidiK 

Remembered Prayers

Asked & answered prayer requests, thru 2007

• 08 October 2009 - 06:33 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: TRACEB 

Roads Less Travelled

Topics less timely, threads less active.

• 16 June 2008 - 08:21 PM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: AlexnMomma 

Holiday Storage

You pick the holiday, we've got the topic.

• 02 July 2010 - 11:45 AM
• In: Protected Forum
• By: marthaj