My husband was on the extension as we called the agency back. A woman had given birth the previous night and had asked for help in placing the baby boy. She selected our portfolio and signed relinquishment papers as soon as she was able. Were we interested? I wanted to say no, we weren't ready, we wanted a girl. Two days later we flew to San Antonio to meet Eric. I don't remember much, only the tears that splashed on him as I cried tears of joy and happiness.

We brought him home a few days later, and the most incredible feeling was knowing we had walked out the front door as a couple and were returning as a family.At the time our biggest regret was that we were not able to meet Eric'sbirthmother Colleen. We kept sending her letters and photos in care ofthe adoption agency, hoping that one day she would come back. My husbandknew in his heart that she would, and I felt so too. But after a while, Ibegan to question whether or not she would.

One fall day, when Eric was 2 ½ years old, I got a phone call from ouradoption agency. They were calling to let me know that Colleen had been intouch and was finally ready to see the photos and read the letters. One more thing - she was pregnant again and wanted us to adopt this babytoo! We started to write letters to one another. My husband and I spent the whole timein a state of disbelief. We were nervous, but there was no way we were notgoing to adopt our son's half sister!

A few short months later, Danielle Colleen James joined our family, almost 3years to the date we'd adopted Eric. This time we were lucky enough tomeet with Colleen and found her to be warm, funny, loving and at peacewith her decision to place her children with us. We plan on staying intouch, and we know that we are blessed to know her. When the time comes,we will be able to share with our children what a wonderful first motherthey both have. Maybe one day they, too, will be lucky enough to meether.

There is a family waiting for every child that is born, and how the childcomes to that family is not important. What's important is thatadoptive parents need to be patient, strong, and have the faith that it isnot a matter of if, but a question of when their family will be complete.

Barbara James is a volunteer advocate and is eager to help others dealing with adoption.