Step 5 is to obtain your non-identifying ("Non-id")information. This information will generally come from the adoption agency or the state. Although the non-id is designated to provide information, it is not generally enough to locate birth parents or adoptees. However, later on in a search some of its clues can help to verify that you have the correct person. This link will direct you to some previous blogs about the non-id information.

Nearly every... more

Step Four is to sign up with free registries.

The most highly recommended registries to begin with are:

1.International Soundex Reunion Registry (aka Soundex) is one of the most popular free international registries. It also is highly publicized and has an impeccable reputation for quick matches and honesty.

2. Reunite.com - The registry at reunite.com (a division of adoption.com)is also well known and successful. They have... more

Step 3 is to determine the laws in the state where the adoption took place. Start here and then follow the link at the bottom of this page for state specific information.

For the most current and up-to-date information about adoption access in your state, go to your state's website and see what your state has to offer to assist you in your search. Laws about adoption access are changing and some guides which list access laws do... more

Step 2 is creating a support system to share your search and/or reunion with you.

Developing a strong support system as you navigate through your adoption search and reunion can be a crucial step in a successful experience. Although some family members may be supportive, chances are that they may not be able to comprehend what you are going through. If you educate them along the way, that can help tremendously. When you encounter family members who are not supportive and seem unwilling or interested in being educated, if it is possible... more

Although I have discussed how to begin a search, a step by step series might be helpful.

Step One is preparing yourself for a search.

By preparing yourself, I mean to educate yourself about the possible outcomes. Many searching adoptees are thoroughly forewarned about a multitude of dire possibilities. Although it is helpful to be prepared for the darkest and most unexpected outcomes, I sometimes think we neglect to discuss possible positive outcomes. I believe that some adoptees are more prepared to find nightmare... more

1. Legal notice of adoption – These were often printed in legal journals that can be viewed at a legal library. Some courthouse have a law library that you may be able to access. 2. Relinquishment Papers – These are only available to natural parents. Adoptees will not be able to obtain them from the agency. However, if you are a natural parent, ask for them. It is a document that is yours and should be provided to you. 3. Telephone Books 4. City Directories 5. Marriage Records – These are filed in most states on a county level and filed... more

During your adoption search there are certain documents that will provide you with information pertinent to your search. Some you will be able to easily obtain through the appropriate state agency for a fee. There will be other documents you can check for additional information aid you in your search. Believe it or not one of the hardest part about searching is the waiting game. You can request information. That is the easy part. The hard part comes in when you are playing the waiting game. Each request you make is going to take time and... more

The last day of 2006, what a whirlwind of a year this has been for me! As the old year ends, I cannot help but marvel at all that I have learned. Throughout the year about, I have seen the amazing resilency and resourcefulness of those separated by adoption. The dogged determination and strong desire to reunite in many separate family members continues to amaze me with each new story that I uncover.

The opportunity to watch and hear stories of search and reunions has been an exciting one for me. As reunions increase and become more frequent, more research... more

This photo is one that I took a few years ago in Paris. Don't ask what it has to do with the subject of this blog - there is no correlation. I just liked this photo and wanted to use it!

Our new adoptee blogger Jupe is not an anguished adoptee who blames every problem or issue in her life on her adoption. In fact, in her past few blogs she has said that she is hard pressed to identify issues that are specific to adoption (or words to that effect.) I commented that I do believe that there are some issues that are unique to adoptees. Jupe's response is below.

I... more

If you begin a search, you have no idea where it might lead you. Some searches may involve other countries, sometimes unexpectedly so. I did have to stretch my imagination to tie in the Eiffel Tower to this post! The Eiffel Tower happens to be a favorite of mine.

Adoption searches can lead you to different states or countries. One adoptee that I know found her birth family in Finland.

With a new year beginning soon, are you considering a search? Here are some beginning steps: 1. Register with... more