Officially Official

We gathered, witnessed and celebrated the (official/legal) joining of this amazing girl to the L family.  Miss Ella wore a perfect red monogrammed dress to seal this momentous occasion.

Waiting to go in....
excited for Ella's big day:)

The moment came and we all went inside the courtroom.

THEN.......a little bump in the road. A major dirty diaper, in which Cindy turned around to rush out of the courtroom, screaming, "Emergency!", holding Ella at arms length.  This all happened the moment the Sheriff said, "All rise!" as the Judge entered.

Katy, Cindy and I hurried to get her clean-up!  There were several articles of clothing that had to be discarded, like Nat's coat, tie, and her adorable white & red stripped tights.

After a few crazy minutes, we went back into the courtroom and everything preceded as normal:)




Both Nat and Cindy raised their right hands and promised to care, committed to protect and love her like she was born to them as a biological daughter.  It was one of the most heart-bursting moments.  There were many tears in the courtroom from family and friends.  It was simply gospel in the flesh.



Afterwards, they walked up the the Judges quarters and Ella played with her gavel and signed scribbled on her adoption papers.  

 

She has been in their hearts for years, in their arms for months, 

but this day she became legally part of their family - forever.

and, of course I couldn't miss seeing and supporting on this big day.  Both of these girls mean the world to me.

So thankful for Cindy and Miss Ella Marie Su-Mia "L"!

“But you have seen, for You observe trouble and grief, to repay it by your hand. The helpless commits himself to You; You are the helper of the fatherless.” 

Psalm 10:14