Getting closer with a few lasts...

We are getting closer to our finalization and we can't be more excited! In 9 days, "J" and "K" will finally be home FOREVER! What an amazing feeling. We are busy planning their adoption party for the weekend after the our court date. What a great way to celebrate and welcome the boys into their forever family then with a party!! 

We met with our attorney yesterday. He went over the questions that the judge will ask us in the courtroom. The judge will ask the case worker and ourselves questions to determine "the best interest" of the boys. Since the boys are so young, they don't really get to speak for themselves. Joe, (not sure how you address an attorney) said that the whole process takes about 15 minutes. It amazes me what a life changing event such as an adoption only takes 15 minutes. I suppose that is because the major life changers have already taken place, removal from birth parents and termination of birth parent rights. We still can't get over the fact that someone could not provide the needed love, care, and nurturing that our two boys needed. As I have said many times before, someone else's mess up has been our gain and joy! 

We also had our LAST home visit for the boys yesterday. Our case worker came out, chatted with us for a while. She has come out once a month just to check on them and make sure that they are adjusting fine. As much as we will miss having her come out and chat, we are so happy to close that chapter of our lives! 

We are traveling out of state this weekend to enjoy a retirement party for a dear friend in Virginia. When we do anything above and beyond the normal day to day things, we have to let JFS know what is going on and get "permission" to take the boys along. They have never told us no but it sometimes feels like being a teenager getting permission to borrow the car. This weekend will be the last time we need to get travel permission for the boys! Another YEA!!! 

On another note, our best friends, Cara and Doug, are headed to Serbia today to adopt a beautiful little girl. They will be leaving their daughter, Hannah, at home with family while they are gone. This will be a bitter sweet time for them, with excitement for their new daughter and sadness for leaving Hannah. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they embark on this wonderful time!!! We can't wait to see this cute little lady!!! We love you guys! Be safe! 

And on another note, my cousin James, who has been in the hospital for 4 weeks after suffering two strokes. James is only 14! Today he was released from the hospital today, just in time for his 8th grade graduation. We are so proud of James and his progress. We know that he is going to continue to make great strides in his recovery! We love you very much! Keep it up!