[lprettyman]

We just got a call from our agency regarding siblings ages 1 year and 3-4 month old. The younger is still in the data bank. We have to wait for a official referral before travel and that wont come until the younger is released from data bank. We have virtually no info at this time except that the older is a girl born December 2003 and the younger is a boy, who they think was born in Sept or Oct 2004. In our Dossier we were open to twin siblings, but never thought we would come across 2 children not twins this close in age. Has anyone out there experienced anything like this? The region is Bryansk.... We had turned down our first referral due to medical concerns.

[mgibson]

Our kids are not bio related by are only 8 months apart. I wouldnt be worried about it if thats the only concern. The age difference is something to consider when parenting (you have two that are close but not quite developmentally on the same page). I do find myself buying toys that are a bit too old for my daughter simply because I tend to assume she is further ahead by a few months than she really is. Its almost the same as having twins but you do have to be mindful of the differences that just a few months can make and act accordingly. Those developmental issues do go away tho in time. Ours are now 2 and 3 and each month they grow closer developmentally. Now we are trying to make sure they each get plenty of individual time and can develop their own identities (putting thier names on their toys, girls day out, etc.).

I was shocked however, at how quickly my two fell into the stereotypical "birth" order relationships. My son, whose older, quickly became his sisters "caretaker" and makes it clear that he is the older one. He hugs her and scolds her - basically lets her know whose boss! My bio twin nephews tho do the same and their age difference is only a few minutes.

The bio relationship is something few adoptive parents can keep in tact. I think its wonderful that you have this opportunity.

Good luck, Melissa

[Waiting4Skip]

This DOES happen and most people welcome the opportunity to adopt both at once. The decision of course is utimately yours, but if you WERE considering adopting more than one, than this does seem to be a great opportunity.

Keep us posted as you receive more information!

Judy

[goingtorussia]

That sounds perfect to me, we are looking just for that type of situation. I would say you are lucky to get it. If you want to wait for twins who knows how long that will be if these two are healthy go for it.

[bratgirl]

This situation is pretty close to having twin babies. Helena just turned 1 yr in November and is still very much a baby. I agree with everyone else - if the medical look good and it feels right - go for it.