Finalization

Natalee's adoption finalization hearing was this morning at 8AM. Everything went smoothly and without any glitches. We took pictures but with my Mom's camera so I'll have to post pictures later.

Tears were rolling down my eyes during the hearing. The attorney asked me to say a few words about Natalee. I was crying before I could get the second word out. And I forgot to bring a Kleenex. Thank you Dad for letting me have yours, my sweater was not making for a good tissue. There wasn't a dry eye in the house. Grandma and Grandpa, Great-Grandma, Oma and Opa, Grandma Beckie and Grandpa Paul, Charlee, Natalee, and I were present along with Cindy, A Guardian Angel, and Lance, the attorney.

Throughout the day, I've thought about Veronica, Cyrus (birth parents) , and BJ (Natalee's 1/2 birth brother). I am so grateful to them for allowing me to raise Natalee as my own. I can't even imagine the feelings of giving a child up for adoption would be like. I am so blessed to have met them and to know a little about who they are. They are wonderful people that I'll never forget. May be one of these days we will meet again?

I'm not sure how I was going to feel today. Natalee has been my daughter, a sister to Charlee, a granddaughter, a niece, a cousin, and a great-granddaughter from the moment I saw her laying in nursery 6 months ago. Today I received closure on the adoption. Just knowing that legally she is my daughter. I've never worried about Veronica or Cyrus changing their minds but it is nice to have all the adoption stuff done. I can leave state lines without the agencies permission, I can take her out of the country, and get her a passport and social security number with our last name.

I wish I had the words that describes how I am feeling inside. My heart is full of love and happiness. I am a very proud Mom of two wonderful children. I want to go hug and kiss the Girls right now but they are both taking a nap after a wonderful day.

Thank you to all my family and friends who have given me support, encouragement, and love through our adoption journeys. We couldn't have done it without you.

Love
Yvette, Charlee, and Natalee