Finally, Finally FINAL!

I seem to have taken a bit of an unintended blogging hiatus.  It’s been a busy, eventful summer.  I’ll get back to blogging soon.  In fact, I already have a few posts started in a notebook.  In the meantime, it’s time to announce the most exciting and wonderful news of the summer:

On August 23, 2013, Francis’ adoption was finalized in Bucks County Court.  Finally.  Eleven months after he came into our lives, we promised once again to love him forever.  This time, we told him, when we made these promises in front of the judge, he would be stuck with us forever.  No trading us in.  And this little boy, who fought so hard every step of the way the first few months in our home, was happy to hear it.  He has found the place he had wanted for so long, and we could not be happier. 

We had a celebration that day, for sure.  Lola and Lolo came to court with us, and we had lunch, dinner, and miniature golf together.  Well, Francis, Lola, Lolo, and Daddy did, anyway.  I had a bit of an unexpected trip to the urgent care center that added a little crimp in the day’s plans.  I was bitten by a fly on Thursday and had such a bad allergic reaction to it I was hardly able to walk.  It was fun to watch Francis having such a good time celebrating his special day, though!

We tell Francis we are family forever and there will be no more RSCC for him.  He asks us if we’re sure, and we always tell him we’re positive – always and forever.  I’m sure you can imagine the tears that flowed from our eyes last night as Francis, in a quiet little voice, prayed out loud:

“Lord, thank you for Mommy and Daddy.  I love them very much.  And thank you for letting me live here with them, in this house, forever and ever.  Amen.”

Never have there been three people more thankful to have each other.  Happy finalization day, Francis.  We love you more than you will EVER know!

 With the judge who finalized Francis' adoption.  After we took the picture, Francis turned, shook the judge's hand, and said, "Thank you!"  That's my boy!