We're home, and we had a GREAT time!!! The weather was absolutely sparkling, and I have a whole new respect for the New Jersey Shore. It's not all boardwalk and tacky arcades, nuh-uh. We were staying in a friend's house in the wonderfully named Surf City on Long Beach Island. Now I'm all jealous and coveting even the tiniest shack somewhere within walking distance of the ocean. Oh well, probably not in this lifetime.

But it was fun, and I think I only gained a coupla ounces. That would be from the ice cream.

Lisa, I don't think there is any such thing as a "noncomplicated adoption". Having kids (whether natural, adopted, step, etc.) will definitely increase your stress level. They aren't sweet little babies for very long. They will bring you the greatest joy that you have ever known, but they can also cut your heart deeper than you could ever imagine. I would gladly give my life for my sons, without a second thought. But there are times when you just can't beat your loyal, undemanding, always glad to see you, easy to satisfy puppies.

Kids themselves don't stress me out. Everyone says I was born to be a mom - my patience drives my kids nuts. Maybe because I work in a law firm... it's the whole legal mess that I avoid. That's why I hope the sky will open up one day and some kids will land. Then again, my heart falls apart when my fur baby gets a splinter in her foot. I'd be a wreck if I ever saw my own child in pain.

AWH- So sweet and sentimental sounding Lisa. I know what you mean though about wanting a child just to fall into your lap. Another fear I would have about getting pregnant is the weight gain part, ESPECIALLY if I get it all lost this time around. I don't know what I would do. LOL, Teresa