Finalization

We're legal!  Today was our finalization hearing.  It was the last formal step in the adoption process, granting us permanent legal custody of Brady.  The Final Judgement of Adoption orders that his name is now what we have chosen for him, and he is entitled to all the rights and privileges and subject to all the obligations of a child born to us biologically.

The hearing only lasted about 20 minutes, but it was a very special time.  We each testified to our names, birth dates, address, wedding date/place, our ability to provide financially and emotionally for Brady, and finally, why we want to adopt him.  The last question was incredibly difficult.  Not because we couldn't articulate an answer, but because we were both very choked up.

Brady was his usual charming self during the proceedings.  He was bouncing up and down in our laps, laughing, blowing raspberries, and happily shouting to no one in particular.  He definitely stole the show.

After the judge signed the adoption order, he presented Brady with a teddy bear.  It was only as we were walking out of the courtroom that I noticed that it was wearing a necklace that read "Brady"- how thoughtful  The judge also asked us to email him the picture we took of all of us.  He said that his court reporter takes pictures for him, but she was off today.  He said he usually wouldn't bother since she was gone, but because Brady was so cute he really wanted his picture for his collection.  It's good to know that we're not the only people who think so!

We are counting our blessings tonight. 

Lucky number 13

Getting sworn in

Brady gets in on the action while Daddy testifies

Mommy's turn to talk

Our adoption agency representative

The Honorable Jack Day signs the final adoption decree

Gift presentation

Photo op with the judge

Forever family