Free Republic

For 33 years, Florida forced them to hide behind a veil of secrecy. But now, prospective parents who are gay can legally adopt a child in Florida. Already, some are stepping forward, putting the process in motion. For others, it means a quicker end to their legal limbo. "We've had a lot of sleepless nights and a lot of tears,'' said Melanie Leon Alenier, who with partner Vanessa Alenier has been fighting the state over the right to adopt 21-month-old Ethan, a biological relative who has been with them since he was nine days old.