Done!

Luciana and Sam getting ready to head to the courthouse.

Happy moment after the proceedings.

Sam proudly holding the paperwork that officially recognizes Luciana's
adoption here in the states and has her new LEGAL name!

Order in the court!

So, in this mostly ceremonial (though still emotional) step, we celebrate the finalization of all the legal details that put on paper what we have always known in our hearts. Luciana is Luciana legally, and she is ours... all ours! We were joined by my Mom and Dad, and Luciana's Godmother, Barbara, and Sam's buddy, James! It was great to have their support and even more fun to celebrate with them after the proceedings! While in the courtroom, and in true Lucy fashion, my little nap-deprived toddler ran in circles
charming the robe right off the judge! She was a riot!

Today was special, but I am also glad it is done. I feel like I took that final deep breath. Like any milestone in Luciana's life, I have had Lucy's birthmother and foster mother in my heart. I pray they know how loved this sweet girl really is.

I am going to leave the final thought for this post to Sam... as we were driving away from the courthouse, he broke our reflective silence with, "Well, Mom. We did it." Yes, buddy, we sure did.

Much love.