It's Official!

Well, it’s official – we are parents again!!! Court went well. It did not look anything like I expected, but our coordinator had prepared us well for how everything worked. Both the judge and the prosecutor asked more questions that I expected, but I guess our answers were okay because Reagan is now ours! I loved hearing the head doctor from the orphanage and the social worker testify. They both talked about how much Reagan looks like me, and how our love for her was evident in our interaction. It was difficult to hold back the tears; but as stern as the judge was, I don’t think she would have liked anyone crying in her courtroom. In Russia, civil court decisions are not final for ten business days so we do not get custody until then.

After court, we had more paperwork errands to do then went to the orphanage for another visit. There were three other families there today so instead of the music room, we were sent to a small playroom by ourselves. We loved having that time with her alone. Telling her goodbye was really, really hard again. At least we know that we will be back in two weeks and she will be with us forever.

Have I mentioned that it is FREEZING here? Several people told us today that this is the snowiest winter they have had in a while in St. Petersburg. Aren’t we lucky? It’s supposed to snow a lot again tomorrow, so we are praying it isn’t too bad before our plane can leave in the morning. We have to get up at 1:30am to make our flight in the morning. We’re dreading the trip back tomorrow but can’t wait to see Parker again. He is so excited to be going with us on trip 3.

We love you, baby girl, and we’ll be back soon!