[amyfk]

HI,

I want to wish you best of luck in your decision.

It's a very big decision to make in which country you want to adopt from. We started out the process before the slowdown and got caught up in it, so we're trying to finish up. I can understand your mixed emotions.

If you do decide to go with Russia, it's highly recommended that you go with one of the 30 or so accredited agencies which are permitted to work in Russia. Since the slowdown, the Russian govt has gotten strict on which agencies are permitted to work there. Unfortunately there are many good people(and good kids) who were affiliated with unaccredited agencies, and their lives are in limbo.

OVer the past few years there has beenunfortunate cases of adoptive parents who beat/killed their Russian adoptive children. Recently there was a case of horrible abuse of a Russian-adopted child again here in the states.

What I'm finding is that the adoptions(for now) are going on, but the paperwork requirements have gotten much stiffer within the past 6 mo. It is tiring to say the least.

We're with an accredited agency and we recently got a referral(which we're deciding on). I'm assuming all of the accredited agenices are still giving out referrals?.? I hope others chime in and give you help.

Compared to other programs that Ive heard of (china and Korea) the Russian adoption program is much more stressful in terms of paperwork and smooth running of the referrals. Many folks on this board, however, are very glad that they did adopt from Russia and have had a lot of joy in their children. However, it's a personal decision you have to make and you have to feel comfortable with your decision. Id continue doing as much research as possible.

I wish you the best of luck.
Amy K, NJ