To answer some questions

Hi everyone, I got some good questions on the comments so I figured I'd try to answer them. There was one from a couple of days ago about how long do we get to visit after court. Still the same 2 hours I'm afraid. As to where to shop, just about anywhere! There are lots of shops down Republic. If you are looking for young infant clothes that are reasonably priced, the "baby mall" is the place to go! I think they call it the "Pucha". It isn't very far from the Astana bakery and about a 20 min. walk from my apartment here in Samal. There is a store called "Mother Care". It has really cute clothes and toys too, but is more expensive. There is the "pizza mall" (can't remember the name - think it is the "Soom") which is also more expensive. There is also the Eurasian Mall which is great. It is huge and has lots of selection - prices vary. By the way, if you are thinking of buying a stroller over here, like the cheap umbrella strollers at home, they are expensive! You might want to consider bringing one. One of the moms that was here last month bought a nice stroller that was fancier than an umbrella stroller but not as elaborate as other kinds for about $70 USD.
As to price tags and help from the retailers, it isn't too bad. Most things have price tags on them, just be prepared to see prices like 800, 1,500 and even 4,000 on the tags! (I think the US exchange rate is about 125.9 right now!) So I bring a little calculator with me. To ask some one the price you just have to say "Skolka" or "Skolka eta stoit" and do some pointing. Then if they try telling you the price and you don't understand, point to their calculator and get them to punch it in on it. Be prepared to use all cash. Most stores DON'T take credit cards. Most bank machines accept our ATM cards and credit cards for cash advances, though.
Did I bring clothes with me? Yes, but I was expecting that we would end up adopting a child on the older end of our age range (up to 18 months) so I brought sizes 12 months and 18 months. Matty still fits into mostly 3-6 month clothes! I agree, it is very hard to decide what to bring, especially when you have gender, space and weight issues. We didn't specify boy or girl, but I brought all boy clothes figuring it was easier to dress a girl that way then a boy in frilly pink! I know how hard it was to pack for us and an unknown child in the summer, so I feel for those of you who are hoping to come in the winter! I have seen LOTS of snowsuits in shops over here already, haven't checked the prices, but that may be one bulkier item you could purchase over here since I don't think you would need one right away and you can always borrow one from the orphanage IF they let you go outside with your child! Just something to think about!
Anyway, if anyone has more questions, feel free to ask. I will do my best to answer them. I still find it funny that I am the one being asked instead of the one asking!
PS- At the beginning of your stay, you will have you translator with you and she will show you were to shop and help you with the retailers, so don't worry!