Adoption Finalized!

Well, we have passed the final paperwork hurdle in Maya's adoption by completing the court certification here in North Dakota. We went to the district court house yesterday and stated that we understand the responsibility of parenting Maya and that we do indeed love her (I will save the commentary on having to state that under oath for another conversation...)

So what does this mean? In the broad scope of things not that much. She already was legally our daughter, but now she can be recognized by the state so that a ND birth certificate can be issued in the name of Maya. We can also now apply for a Certificate of Citizenship and a Passport.

It was a very special day for the three of us and we were able to capture it on video as well as get a photo with the judge.

Yeah for Maya!

First Sleepover

Maya had her first sleepover this past Saturday night as we attended the Bon Jovi concert.  Friends of ours who have 3 adopted boys invited Maya over.  We can't thank them enough for doing this for us.  From what we hear, everyone had a great time especially Maya.  The boys are amazing and they love to play with Maya.  Here are some pictures from the sleepover.  Thank you again Nicole and Jared.  We owe you one!

 

To hear more about the sleepover visit the My African Princes blog: http://myafricanprinces.blogspot.com/2008/04/solomons-first-sleepover.html

 

Owen played peek-a-boo w/ Maya


Solomon and Maya enjoy a ride to the park

Solomon and Maya share a swing as it was large enough for 2!

Outdoor Play

Maya enjoyed playing outside today.  The weather is absolutely beautiful today so we took advantage of it.  Here are some pictures from today.

 

Maya's Big Adventure

Daddy took Maya on an airplane to visit Grandma Linda, Aunt Lisa, and Cousins CJ and Alicia.  Maya did a great job on the plane except for the one blow out (sorry Dave).  Maya got to visit Grandma Linda's and Aunt Lisa's work.  From what I hear, she charmed everyone.  Two days after landing, Dave took Maya on a road trip to visit Aunt Judy and Uncle Isaac.  It was a long 4 1/2 hour drive but Maya did great.  It helped that she had cousin CJ and Grandma Linda keeping her company as all 4 of them made the trip. 

Here are a few pictures from their long weekend.  I am happy to have them home as it has been lonely without them.

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Loss of a Loved One

Last Thursday, I lost my father.  I wish I had the rights words to type but I do not.  My father will be missed and we will continue with our lives.  My sister and I did get to meet our long lost aunt and uncle.  We had a wonderful time visiting with them and hearing stories about our father.  Below is a photo of my father with my siblings.  It was taken in 2002 so we have changed a little since then (smile). 

More Pictures of Maya!

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Precious Maya

Little Miss Maya was under the weather yesterday.  I have to admit I had a moment that I needed to leave the room and take a deep breath.  Tonight I am downloading my pictures and came across this one.  This picture reminds me how much I love my daughter and how lucky we are that she is ours.