In July 6, 2004 Lottie and I finalized the adoption of 8-month old Sean Pavel in Tambov, Russia.  Sean's new big sister Kelcie, 10 years old, met us at DFW International Airport when we returned home on July 10.  Sean was born in Tambov on October 17, 2003 and left by his mother at the maternity hospital.  We were matched with him when he became available for international adoption in April.

While there are many agencies helping families adopt in Russia, our experience is with Buckner International Adoption.  We highly recommend them.  The Buckner staff will give you honest expectations, patient guidance, and prayerful support.  Look on their website for information about their adoption seminars that will help you with your decision about international adoption.

Click on the buttons above to learn more about our story.  If you are interested in international adoption, then we hope that you will be better informed after reading about our experience.  We would love to assist you, or pray for you as you take this step.

January, 2006 update:

Sean is a happy, thriving 2-year-old boy.  Both his mouth and his feet seem to be in perpetual motion, he loves playing with cars, and finds great pleasure in antagonizing his older sister.  Aside from typical 2-year-old behavior, we have found nothing in his development at this point to indicate any lingering problems from having lived in an institution.

Adoptions in Russia have slowed due to the Russian government re-examining the process.  Still, families have been able to adopt and we continue to pray that more families will consider undertaking the adoption of a Russian child.

January 2007 update:

Sean is now three years old.  He loves to play outside with any kind of ball and loves to play with cards inside.  We are blessed with his good health, and a mischievous, playful personality.