When Elijah came home, the plan was that we were to wait 6 months for finalization to occur. This would mean that the adoption would be final in February. However, in our situation, it became evident to our case worker and Judge Stowe, that this was a unique situation. The relationship we formed with the birthfamily was the closest to the "open" adoption model that they had seen. It is in these special circumstances that they allow a select few families finalize on National Adoption Day. They chose us. I distinctly remember sitting in the courtroom when Tom, our case worker, asked Judge Stowe to grant us an exception. He did not even take a minute to think and approved it immediately. I remember him saying that he could tell by the way we (the birthfamily and myself) interacted that it was a sincere and unique relationship, despite the fact that the reason we were there was because Mimi had reliquished her parental rights just moments before. This made it a very bittersweet moment for all of us. Just two months later, we were back, in the midst of balloons, treats for the kids, a luncheon, etc. The courtroom was packed with standing room only. Our family, including all the kids, were called to the stand to appear in front of Judge Stowe and Supreme Court Justice Weaver. I will never forget the speech he gave and the words that he used to describe our adoption of Elijah. He made the moment unforgettable for us. The applause at the completion of the finalization was overwhelming. Something we will carry with us forever. It is all on video for Elijah to view as he gets older. He will always know how much he is loved, not only by us, but by his birthfamily. There will be no secrets, just a heck of a lot of love for this little guy!!!
That being said, I know this is a long post but adoption is a passion of ours now. It is something that has changed our life and the lives of our children. We have instilled in them that there are MANY children out there who do not have their forever home yet and we pray for them daily. Our kids know that there are millions of kids who do not get to do the things they do on a daily basis and who do not have a mommy or a daddy. Our kids have not only learned appreciation for what they have, but more importantly, that we give back to the less fortunate. There are MANY days where our kids will ask if they can use their money to donate to a cause or maybe pick out some clothing they would like to give to a child in need. These are the times when I know we have done something right. Through the daily challanges of raising kids, there are certain things that you want them to gain. This is a big one for us. I think we've had success!
