Thursday, February 11, 2010

We had a big day.







Today was a big day. We got up early this morning to get ready to go to court. Neither of us really knew what to expect - although we have talked to others that have gone through this process the court experience can be unique based on the region of the country, the current views on adoption and seemingly the overall mood of the judge!

We went into the courtroom with our social worker, a translator, a lawyer from the state, a secretary and the judge. It was kind of strange because there was a small jail cell in the courtroom as evidently the room is used for civil and crimimal cases. Anyway, the judge had a number of questions for us over about 20 minutes. We were a little nervous as the questions started but evidently we answered them all ok because after it was done he granted the request so at this point everything is finalized after the 10 day waiting period. It is good news and we are really happy to have this step behind us! Our social worker did say that he asked us more questions than he does many couples - she said this is likely because we are young :) Some of the questions he asked were regarding our home, what we have done to child proof the home, will Max have his own bedroom, our health insurance, why we chose to adopt from Russia, did we know the health history of the child, who will care for Max, etc. The questions were pretty simple but want to make sure we said the 'right things'.

After court we got to go visit Max for about an hour or two. He was happy to see us and play for a while. He is now sitting up much better and we got him to crawl and even stand up (with some help). He does have some wheezing sometimes when he breathes and seemed to grab at his ears - we suspect he has developed a chest infection and maybe an infection in his ears. This shouldn't be a big deal we just want to get him home and get him some treatment! The shirt he had on today was a 3-6 month size so he is really little for his age - once again we just want to get him home so we can help him to get all caught up!

We are now back in Moscow at the apartment. It is very comfortable. We have tomorrow off to do some exploring and we head to Rome on Saturday.

We have also included some pictures of our visit with Max today. Everything has gone very well this trip and we are so appreciative of the support from family and friends. We will continue to update the blog as we continue our travels!

11 comments:

Unknown said...

Yaaaay! Good to hear everything went well... those are some great pictures.. Enjoy Rome!

pickster said...

It's great to see a smile on Max's face. Rome will make the 2 weeks go faster. Have a fun trip!

Anonymous said...

Great pictures! :) I can't wait to meet the little guy. I hope you have fun in Rome..take lots of pictures there too! Greg-we need a gladiator pose in from of the colusium. :)

steve said...

My prayers have come true so far, what a great looking family. STAY SAFE, can't wait to see you. DAD

Unknown said...

Yaay. One more step to bringing Max home. Brings tears to my eyes. He is just so darn cute. It won't take you long to fatten him up. It didn't take Luke long. I am so happy for you guys. The prayers will keep going that you have a safe trip home. Have fun in Rome. Say Hi to the Pope for me.
Love
Aunt Pat

Unknown said...

Hey guys! We're glad that you made it there safe and that everything is going well. Max looks like such a happy little guy! Good luck with the rest of your time there and enjoy Rome!
Hogan & Christine

Grandma Keen said...

Is there ay way to make this time go any faster? He looks so darn cute, this wait is painful!!! I am surprised that he is not into bigger clothes. Glad that he has already made great strides, he will be chasing Kinnick before long!! Have a great time in Rome..can't wait to get you all back home! Greg...is that a doll in his cri?
Glad that you are so open to Max playing with all kinds of toys.
Love Gram K

vz said...

Hey guys! What cute pictures!! He looks bigger than last time :) I got your email, responded, but in case you see this 1st, I will take care of it 1st thing Monday morning & email you back the time. Can't wait for him & Taylor to play together!! Enjoy Rome!
-Van Zee's

The Wyma Zoo said...

Congrats to Mom & Dad!!!! :) Having court done is a huge relief!! The wait is challenging for everyone! Your trip will definitely help!!! 3-6 months does not surprise me. Ashlee had a newborn-sized outfit on that was too big when we got custody at the orphanage!! Get some 'good' nutrition in him, and he'll grow by the days for a while......God is great!! Love, nutrition, & stimulation just do wonders!!! He looks happy, so do you Greg!!! Smiles of pure happines all around!
Congrats again Mom & Dad!!!

Hugs & prayers.....The Wyma's!!!

The Wyma Zoo said...

Congratulations!!!!!!

Rachel said...

Sounds like this trip is going well. All 3 of you look so happy. Max and Kinnick will have so much fun together. Enjoy your trip to Rome and Have a good Valentine's Day!! Can't wait to meet Max:)Take care-Rachel & Scott