Being that we (I) keep up on adoption news and stuff going on in Russia, breaking news occurred May 31st. On May 17 Russia had re-accredited 23 agencies to continue adoptions in the country. On the 31st, Russia published a list denying about a dozen international agencies (many U.S.) because of "fraudulent activities." Now they are investigating many of them before they can be re-accredited.

Our agency, thank the Lord, was re-accredited the first time. But there are a couple big ones who have not, which surprised me. The Russians claim many reasons, from parents not doing post-placement reports to working in unauthorized regions, even to mention "high instances of child abuse." My opinion - all of that, plus a lack of greasing the palms. To be honest.

Our region continues to be one of the most difficult to adopt from currently, with the latest number being 26 documents the female judge is demanding even after the application to receive a court date. So the waits between trips are extending longer and longer. Hmm. So we ponder and think, and pay off bills so we can start saving again....