Well, we've had several days of fun with K and A around Riga, followed by two meetings with the Orphan Court judge, Orphanage Director and Orphanage psychologist in Riga; and then on Thursday morning, we traveled to Jelgava to appear before the Orphan Court judge. She again asked both kids what they wanted to do, and A said a BIG "yes", and K again said "no". K keeps saying he doesn't want to leave, even though he has no family who cares about him! It is with a heavy heart that I am accepting his decision to not be adopted, because sadly I've also reached this same conclusion about him. It's hard to accept that you can't help everybody, especially if they don't think/know they need help, even at such a tender age! And A is ready to leave Latvia to have a mom and a new life...she is very adamant about her decision, and the courts here will respect her decision to be seperated from K.
A then filled out many papers for the judge to proceed with the adoption process, and then she told the judge she wanted a completely new name, which really surprised everybody! The judge said we had to think of a new name by this Sunday for all her new adoption/immigration paperwork to be completed in time to leave. So, with a little help from my mom and me, we all came up with a fine new name for A...she keeps clearing her throat when we call her by her "old" nickname A, which is now her new middle name; but you will all have to wait until we come home to find out what her new first name is! How about that...it made me think of the people in the Bible who God gave new names when they became new people in Him, and I know A wants a new life and loving life in America, and she also wants to know/learn more about God!
On Monday, we will get all her official papers, say good by to K, and head for home on Wednesday! A told me was scared to fly, because she and K watched an airplane movie the other night, but I told her God will hold our plane up in the air as He brings us safely home to America, and she seemed OK with that! It's been a long and emotional trip here, although it has had lots of fun and relaxing moments...it will be nice to be back on a normal schedule again, and prepare for trip #2 in early August!
God's PEACE and JOY, EP
Oh, E...this must be such an emotional time for you! I will continue to keep you ALL in my prayers...prayers for the special relationship you are developing with (the beautiful girl formerly known as...) "A" and prayers for K, as he has been given the option by the courts to make such a huge decision...at such a young age. I can't wait to hear "A's" new name and to see you both when you return!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see you in America! We'll keep prayers for both children as they will experience grieving and for you as you comfort A.
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