Another hurdle

So we got some bad news from Russia today.  Not really bad in the whole scheme of things . . . more like a change in the rules in the middle of the game.  Basically, it requires us to travel to Russia three  times instead of just the two.  And there is a 30-day waiting period between the second and third trip.  (And we don't know if 30 days is 30 business days or 30 calendar days which is also a BIG difference when you think about it).  Likely the trips will be shorter, but it is still a huge expense added as plane tickets range in the $2500 - $3000 per person per trip.  So that is like an added five to six grand to what we had expected.

Aside from the money, which is very real, there is also the added time.  Added time that our daughter will be in the orphanage and not in our arms.  Added time that her little brain and little heart don't have to be with us and added time for me to fret.  And fret I will.

We don't have many answers as this decision JUST came down from Russia, but here is an excerpt from my agency to explain:

The new year 2012 has brought about some unfortunate changes for adoption in Russia.

We have gotten word and confirmation . . .  that Russia is now requiring a 30 day wait from the time you go to court (2^nd trip), until the judge signs the final court ruling.  So, families have the option of staying in country (if the specific region will allow it) or come home and return to Russia for a 3^rd trip to pick up your child. Because this is just being required, we are unsure of the exact number of days in country on trips 2 and 3. We are all hoping for 1 week in country for the court trip (trip 2) and about 10 days for the 3^rd trip.  I will let you know as soon as I have a confirmed schedule for the process.

This is very unfortunate, as it adds extra travel fees to your adoption budget and more vacation time needed for travel.

Unfortunate is definitely an understatement, but as Jeanne said in her text to me tonight, "praying for patience and clarity in God's timing and plan."  Please, yes.  I need all the prayers I can get.