Adoption Hits Home for Vestal Family

11/14/2012 (Updated 6:42:44 PM)

(Source: Jason Weinstein)

"One of the expressions is that they weren't born in my belly, they were born in my heart instead," said Julie Roossien.

Julie Roossien of Vestal was adopted when she was two months old and she made it a life's goal to one day adopt children of her own. When she took a mission trip to Guatemala, she saw her chance.

"I originally decided that once I was married we would adopt. And then as I was single a little bit later I just decided there's no reason to postpone the dream so I decided to do it on my own," said Roosien.

According to organizers of National Adoption Day there are more than 100,000 children in this country waiting for permanent homes. And nationally nearly 30,000 children reach the age of 18 without finding forever families. That's not the case for 11-year-old Abigail, 8-year-old AvaLynn, and five-year-old Ella.

"You were excited when you were little. Are you still excited to have a little sister?" Roossien asked Abigail.

"Yes," said Abigail.

Roosien has one piece of advice for those thinking of adopting.
"Do it. It's an amazing, life-changing experience. And to be able to in whatever way you adopt, international, domestic, foster care, infant, older child, younger child, every child needs and deserves a home," said Roossien.

For Roossien her adoption days are behind her. Or are they?
"Do you want a baby sister? A little baby sister?" asked Roossien to five-year-old Ella.

"A little one? How small?"

***In Vestal, Jason Weinstien, FOX 40 HD News***