Readoption Day.

June 2nd twenty-eleven.

The day everything became officially official.

Yemeserach Zahara became a U.S. citizen.

And we signed away on every last piece of paper necessary to finalize our adoption here in the states.

You see, Yemi actually became a Harrington back on May 10, 2010 when we passed court in Ethiopia.

Between that day and now let's just say there have been a whole lotta hoops to jump through to get every last document signed, stamped, filed, etc.

I understand that it just takes a while. Adoption can easily be summarized with one word, paperwork.

Whew.

I am happy, SO HAPPY to say, WE ARE DONE!

Our readoption day was a very special day for our family.

We started with an early morning appointment at the courthouse. It was a closed hearing where the judge just heard from us and our attorney. It was kind of weird to be sitting in the courtroom and hear the words, "All Rise" and then we all stood up as the judge entered the room. We had to be sworn in. It was the real deal. It felt as if it could be a little intimidating but the judge was a really nice lady. She mostly just asked us questions about our experience, our time in Ethiopia, how everyone in the family is adjusting, etc. She made us feel very comfortable and she smiled a lot, which was a good thing.

To make it extra special, our attorney had documents prepared for Kiki, Jake, & Brady to sign and date. It basically stated that they love having Yemi as a part of our family, that they love her very much and will always be her sister/brother. She is forever a part of our family. The judge asked each of them a few questions and then they signed their document. It was awesome and so tender to see them in that moment and how proud they each were to be able to take that responsibility. They have walked with us throughout our entire adoption journey and it still feels surreal at times to have our sweet Yemi right here with us.

My kids all looked so beautiful.

In the holding area before entering the courtroom.

Siblings forever.

 

I'm pretty sure their dad was making them laugh. Probably showing them his abs of steel or something.

Big sister making it official.

 

 

Brady signing away.

 

Jake in deep concentration.

 

A picture with the judge. Our hearing was short and sweet.

 

The perfect celebration afterwards...

Donnie Macs Trailer Park Cuisine.

Who doesn't want trailer park food to celebrate readoption day?

We got the best seat in the house. Inside the car!

Daddy and his girls.

Momma and the boys.

 

Yemi ordered spaghettios. She was delightfully surprised when they brought it out to her still in the can.

I think her sis may have been a little bit jealous. Kiki loves spaghettios. I'm pretty sure she'll be ordering that next time.

And of course, how could it be a celebration for Yemi without french fries?

 

 

My trailer park models.

 

 

It was a great day.

Comments

[jen smith]

yay! it's finally complete! i know it was a long road but so worth it now that you have that precious girl home and yours forever.

[Deena]

So cool! Congratulations!!!! I love the idea of having your bio kids sign documents...so sweet!
Did you get my fb message about your questions? We got a lot of info!!!
Hope you are doing well. We think of you often. It would be wonderful to see you again some day- maybe Tedi and Grace can meet Yemi somewhere in the middle...where would that be?

[Jodi]

Yeah! What a great day! She is forever a part of the family! Love you Yemi!