adopting older children

Hi, We go pick up our daughter soon, who will be 3 in July! She is sooooooo cute, and the Sisters at the orphanage say she is so naughty, she always begs for juice! We have 3 bio children, 9, 7, and 5 who are very excited to see their new little sister. My husband went to visit the orphanage (since he was adopted from there 32 years ago) and he said he could have brought every one of them home. He said they are so well mannered, and very beautiful, and that they are so happy. I don't think you can go wrong! Each family is different, and the Lord knows your heart, and will make it possible for the right child to come to your home. Good luck! Jen

CHSS - I was adopted at the age of 5 years. I speak to my mother often about the experience and always seem to find more questions to ask her. At the age of 5 my mother said I already developed my own personality and spunk. Because I lived in the orphanage from 3 days until I was 5 years - some behavioral patterns and issues were attributed to my experience as an orphan from a developing country. I had to repeat kindergarten and had some obvious difficulties in elementary school, seeing that english was my second language. Later on my parents had me go through a series of personality tests to determine if I had any other learning disabilities as well as any mental illness. I was not diagnosed with any disabilities but my mother did mention that I was borderline ADHD. I have spoken to numerous adoptees about their experience and understand if you would prefer a parents perspective but I would be happy to share my experiences with you about the 'success' and struggle of my adoption.