When are we *financially* ready to adopt a baby?

[LivingAlmostLarge]

Sorry, had no idea about Romania, roomie was from there and came over at 14 claiming asylum. So I wonder if circumstances are different?

Anyway I know China is very expensive, but South American Countries are cheaper. The reason for china at least is the babies are typically clean and healthy and no way are they going back.

[PrincessPerky]

While I certainly understand the desire to adopt and start from scratch so to speak with an infant, I can honestly suggest advantages to adopting a slightly older child...by age twoish all medical problems tend to be fairly apparent. so you know what you are getting into. a newborn is basically a blank slate, but some things are determined before birth, so a great parent can't negate them.

As to how to save for both..just do it. while you watch your adoption fund grow you do know in the back of your mind if a true emergency should arise between now and then you can use it. but having it labeled adoption fund makes it awfully hard to dip into for a month when bills creep up or the second car needs tires. in those cases a short term selling of surplus or a quick side job , or cutting out some regular luxuries might suffice.

[moneybags]

I can honestly suggest advantages to adopting a slightly older child...by age twoish all medical problems tend to be fairly apparent. so you know what you are getting into. a newborn is basically a blank slate, but some things are determined before birth, so a great parent can't negate them.

I have to disagree with this. Not all medical problems appear by age 2. Also, whether you adopt or have a biological child, you don't have a choice in terms of medical/developmental issues.

[PrincessPerky]

All was a dumb word I meant many..and you can refuse to adopt a 'special needs' child...CP or hearing impaired..those kinds of things you learn about by 2..though you are right many others don't show up.