The end

Well, we're done. We went to court yesterday to finalize the adoption. It went much better than I anticipated. We had to drive to Columbus since thats where the agency is. Its just easier that way. The whole way down we were prepping the boys on how we stand when the judge enters the room and we have to respond with yes and no sir. No yelling, zerberts, fighting, running etc. While the reminders are always nice, they weren't necessary.

Both of our parents met us there along with our attorney and social worker. We waited outside the court room and were right next to a regular office. I can only imagine how much the employees despise court times. We were loud and I'm sure they didn't get much work done. We went into a court room smaller than I expected. The judge had a regular bench, Jon and I sat at a table with Ellie and our attorney and social worker sat at the other table. Our parents sat in a row of chairs behind us with the boys.

The judge was talkative and "funny." Ben was quiet and sat still while Sam checked out the room and played with Ellie. A circus could have been going on behind us and the judge wouldn't have cared. Ellie was adorable. She smiled at the judge and gave a few laughs. Our attorney asked us a few questions then she asked our social worker a few questions. The judge said a few words and signed the decree. That was all. We took pictures with the judge, he let Sam play with the computer while Ben played with the microphones. We chatted with everyone then headed out. 6 months of social worker visits, reports, phone calls, e mails, signatures etc and it all came down to less than an hour of court time. She is ours. She is officially a Purdum. Her original birth certificate is now sealed. We can order a new (correct) birth certificate and social security card and it will be like she was always ours--for real.

Their are no take backs, no what if's, no worrying about the birth mother changing her mind. Its done. We are a family of 5 (and 1/2).

It was a stressful process at times, but so worth it. Had we not been surprised with number 4, we definitely would have adopted again. Instead, we will prepare for another little boy and enjoy every girl giggle along the way.

Thanks for reading. The end.