The Adoption Is Final

Today we finalized our adoption of Maria and Anastacia. They are know officially our children. The court went rather easy, we were very fortunate that Maria's sister agreed to watch the boys so we didn't have to take them. It was about 1 1/2 hour drive to the courthouse, the courthouse was under renovation so it was quite interesting being there. We waited in the hallway for awhile, and then we were called into the judge's office. They held the proceedings and it was over within a matter of 30 minutes! The judge didn't even ask us any questions, he said he knew he was going to approved so why bother, he just wanted to make sure the paperwork was correct.

Both orphanage directors attended and afterwards we went back to Poludino for a big feast! We didn't have a lot of time since our court was late in the afternoon, and the director told us that he just wanted us to come for tea, but when we got there they had prepared a big feast for us! Fish, chicken, pelemi, potatoes, it was great. I even ate the fish (which still had its head and eyes attached!!!!) Those who know me would be very proud. Actually it tasted very good. The directors joked a lot with each other, and the director from Maria's orphanage kept making sure we all were eating. He is the one who wouldn't let me leave unless I ate the fish! We had many toasts (as before!), and we really appreciate all the work and effort that these wonderful people go to for the children. The directors are great, they are loving and kind, and they have been so kind to us. We are grateful for our lawyer, Svetlana, who did so much for us. This was the first time we met her and she was lovely and kind too. And of course you all know how much we LOVE Maria and all that she has done for us.

We got to see the girls one last time. They are so cute!!! It wasn't as emotional with them as yesterday was, but when we got in the car and drove away, I couldn't help but cry. I wish so bad we didn't have to wait the extra time, especially since they are ours!!! But we have been told that this is a precaution because others have adopted and taken the kids and abused them. I guess they figure if you are willing to go through all this to adopt a child, you won't likely abuse them!

We fly out tomorrow, spend a day in Almaty and then home on Friday. I will come back August 30th to get the girls and bring them home. So this will be our last entry from Kazakhstan. I will post some more pictures of the orphanage and children when I get home so you all can see more of what we experienced! And then of course I will update again when I go back to get the girls.

Thanks to all of you for your comments, support, love and prayers. It was wonderful to check each day our email and comments, you all have been great! We love you!!!!!