The Search Notebook is probably one of the most essential items you will need during your whole search.
It is the location you will write every detail of every process you undergo throughout your search. This notebook is best served as a 3-ring binder. It allows you to insert page protectors and looseleaf notebook paper for notes.
The number one rule in any adoption search is to make copies of everything!
It’s simple. If it pertains to your search, it needs to be recorded, or copied. I have a copy of every letter I’ve ever sent to anyone regarding my adoption. I also have copies of every response I have received.
As you will notice during your search, many adoption groups logos include a puzzle piece. This is because during a search, you are taking each individual puzzle piece and trying to complete the entire puzzle. This is why it is so important to record everything.
Keep a Diary
On looseleaf paper or a notebook inserted into your binder, record the details of your search. It should be updated regularly, daily if possible. You will want to record your progress along the way. This is a great place to record you thoughts, quotes, poetry you’ve written or just information you might think is important.
Letters
Photo copy every letter you send out, so you have a copy to keep in your file. I purchased page protectors and slipped the letter I wrote on one side, and the response I got on the other. I also used tabs to be able to find what I was looking for. It definitely helped when there was something important I was searching for. Be sure to record the date the letter was sent and/or received at the top of the letter and any other information you might need later.
Correspondence Log
There will be many phone calls you make throughout your search. Keep a record of every single one of them, no matter how insignificant they seem. Include information such as the date the phone call took place, time, the individual’s name you spoke to, the name of the agency they work for, what the phone call was about, and what the outcome was. This will serve you well if your search process takes awhile. You won’t forget who you talked to, and you will have a resource in case you need to call back with new information.
The search process can be scary. But it’s worth it in the end, when there is information received that you’ve been longing for.