Counting For Caleb {10}

When Caleb was 67 days old (Yes.  We were counting.), we entered our county courthouse with a song in our hearts, spring in our steps, and attorney in tow.  Walking down the crowded hallway leading to the court room, our demeanor and dress caused us to stick out like a sore thumb among the other citizens testifying that day.  Our attorney secured a small holding room where we anxiously waited for our turn.

After approximately 30 minutes, we were escorted into the chaotic courtroom filled with bickering attorneys and irritated legal staff.   The judge paraded in and immediately demanded that the courtroom be cleared of anyone who wasn't involved with our case.  The activity in the room quickly shuffled out the door.  Her next question revolved around the fact that our homestudy had not been correctly filed with the court.  Our attorney's explanation for the mishap was cut short when she abruptly asked for a hard copy to review.  She hastily flipped through the lengthy document, sighed, and shared that she needed time to review the homestudy in its entirety.

A brief glimpse into my thoughts during that 15 minute recess..

-This lady is either as tough as nails, or she has already experienced more than enough crazy for one day. (It was only 9:30ish.)

-This step towards finalizing the adoption just isn't going to happen today.  We are going to have to keep counting, praying, and holding our breath.

-Boy oh boy...Nothing about this adoption has been easy.

-I can't bring all our kiddos to the adoption finalization hearing in a few months because this is absolutely terrifying.

Our caseworker who was scheduled to testify first actually smiled and whispered, "Are you sure about this being your last adoption?"

I physically cringed when the heavy squeaky door finally opened, and the judge returned to her position of power.  Much to our amazement and surprise, we quickly evaluated the change in her body language, attitude, and facial expressions.  Smiling and laughter immediately erupted between her and the court reporter.  The atmosphere in the court room completely transformed, and our hope of securing legal guardianship that day returned.

After I was sworn in by the bailiff, the now warm and fuzzy judge said, "Mrs. H..please take a deep breath and smile!"

As my testimony was coming to a close, the attorney representing Caleb's best interest decided to ask one final question.  He asked, "Is Caleb always this easy and quiet?"  Like all proud mommas, I didn't hesitate before responding with an extremely positive...YES!  Then I remembered that I was under oath, and for a few brief moments I panicked.  I lied under oath!  With sweat forming and a crack in my voice, I came clean informing the court that he does have "moments" of not being absolutely happy and quiet.  I didn't even need to glance back at Scott to know that he was shaking his head and giggling.

We were granted legal guardianship of Caleb Jesse, and an adoption finalization hearing was set for March 6, 2017.  Before dismissing the court, the judge graciously invited us to bring all of the children to court in March because she would have a gift for them.

We stopped counting at 67.

True joy.