Just had to share....got a pick of one of the finished necklaces.  I think it looks awesome!

Gifts

I know I have mentioned to my friends and family how well cared for Maria is at her orphanage.  I had no concerns about leaving in December because I saw the care and love they have for her.  I knew she would be well taken care of during the long wait between trips.  I know that the orphanage staff has been her family....the ones who have taken care of her when she was ill, celebrated birthdays and holidays with.  They have seen the major milestones in her life thus far.  I'm sure that on the day that I go to bring Maria home...there will be many emotions for all of us.  I have no doubt it will be bitter sweet for them...happy that she finally has her own family and sad that she will no longer be with them.  I have been wanting a way to honor the special role that they have had.  So, this week I asked my FB friends for ideas (usually I'm creative with things like this, but with all the ups and downs, I feel a little burned out).  My friend Kristen suggested I look for necklaces on etsy.com  I started to look and found a store that makes glass tile necklaces and key chains (liked this since Maria's director is a man and I just don't see him wearing a necklace).  You get to choose the design, words, font, colors, etc.  The tiles are 7/8 of an inch (in case you were wondering).  She also will give discounts for larger orders!  We have been emailing back and forth to make sure that the design is perfect.  At first she asked if I wanted such personal words.  When I explained about Maria and the staff's relationship, she agreed I had the perfect words.  She is also an adoptive mom and completely has understood what I wanted.  So, if you would like to check out her store you can do so here.  Here are the two designs (similar) in Maria's favorite colors.

5/14/2012

Finally, after 145 days since seeing my daughter, after court was postponed last week.......I received the email at 3:45pm Monday, saying that the Judge approved my adoption.  Maria is no longer one of the 145 million orphans worldwide.  She is wanted, is loved and is my daughter!

 After receiving the news yesterday, I quickly called my mom and dad to let them know the news.  Then started making calls, sending texts, and sending emails to other important people who have been huge supports during this journey.  Answered texts/emails of congratulations and received calls of celebration.  Ended up posting a short video (minus music) on FB as an announcement.  So many fellow adoptive parents pouring out their support and joy.

The best reaction was probably from my amazing friend Andrea, who had been at a memorial (unbeknown to me).  She called late last night, squealing and giggling with joy!  She had me giggling and laughing too, just like when we were in college.  She didn't get my message until she got home and as soon as she heard it ran downstairs to call me, giggling the whole way...not sure what her kids thought of seeing that.  It was the perfect ending to the night.

The relief and joy felt are hard to describe unless you have been through this journey yourself...can say a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders.  I'm sure there will be more stress and frustration before Maria is finally home....at least I can now see the light at the end of the tunnel!  So, now I'm waiting on the judge to release the court decree so that I can learn when my travel dates will be.  Ready to be reunited with my daughter! 

Mother's Day came a day late for me.  Just glad I can say: I'm officially, legally and finally Maria's mom!