[bishopmom]

We are off and running. The loan, the agency, and the country and all chosen. Now what?
I don't know what to expect.
We are seeking 3 to 4 children under the age of 5 from Russia. Can anyone offer advice as to what we're up against? Is the fact that we want to adopt many children going to help us or hurt us in regards to waiting time? Is the young age I've specified going to cause a problem? Is Russia adoption friendly at this point or is their a legal risk? Do we also need an attorney? Will the fact that we already have two biological sons, ages 10 and 7, restrict us to fewer adoptees? How does expense increase when there is a second or third child being adopted as well? Does it work as one adoption or three adoptions? Does that depend on the relation of the adoptees to each other?
I know the agency is going to field questions, but from the position of the PAYEE, if you know what I mean. I need to hear from real mom's who've been before me.
My husband and I feel elated to have just gotten this far. Adoption feels so confusing and complicated. We imagine where the children are right now, and wonder how they're being treated. We can't bring them home fast enough.
I've heard waiting times from 6 months to 24 months for the same country and wonder what made that big difference. Having the money ready? An individual orphanage's or worker's policies?
In a word, overwhelmed.
I appreciate your help! Donna