We’re Official

April 15, 2010 will be remembered as finalization day. We’ve been a family since January 9, 2010, but finalization day means we’re recognized as a family by law. The judge declared: “Raelyn Grace Repko shall, for all intents and purposes, be considered their natural child and shall be entitled to the same rights and privileges.”

We saw other families go into court before us and met another family going into court behind us. We were all there for the same reason. It was “Adoption Day.” It’s most likely the happiest day in court each month.

 Mark and I were sworn in and promised to “tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth.” We each had to sit in the witness stand box and answer a few questions. The judge asked Mark if he thought we were financially secure enough to raise a child. Mark answered yes and then the judge chuckled and said, “Are you sure? Girls are expensive. I should know, I have daughters!” haha After the judge granted the adoption and signed all the documents, we took this photo. He is a kind man and congratulated us multiple times.

We declared the day, “Family Day.” We packed up a picnic lunch and headed to the IMA grounds. We had a beautiful day and just enjoyed being together.

Raelyn is such a special little girl. She will always know that she grew in my heart and from my prayers. Oh so many prayers…