It's official! Jim signed off on Friday at the lawyer's office because it had to be notarized. Then a social worker came on Saturday to their home and Tara signed. We had all the kids (except Hannah) out for a walk to give them time together. Jim said it was even harder to watch Tara have to sign than it was to sign for himself. They didn't have to relinquish in a courtroom, and we're very grateful for that. I wanted them to have privacy and be in comfortable surroundings for it. I cannot even imagine how much love they have for Hannah to be able to do this. They are so inspiring to me as parents. I know that Hannah and Allen will KNOW they are loved, and will know that this was the hardest thing Jim and Tara have ever done.



After that happened we spent Saturday helping them move into their new place. The old one had way too many unresolved issues that the landlady refused to fix. It was turning into a negative situation, and the landlady must have known it because she didn't even ask them why they were moving out so early. Then we spent the night with them in their new home and had lots of fun. Friday night Allen had his first slumber party and stayed with them in their last night at the old place. He took a bath with Jamie and Brendan and splashed with them. He played to his heart's content. And Tara was sweet enough to call and tell me that he was doing just fine. I wasn't worried, but I sure was glad to hear it.



On Sunday we went to church with them and were able to meet some of the people who have meant so much to our adopted family. It was great to hug them and tell them how much we appreciate them. I even told one special lady how much I knew that Tara's family must appreciate her because she has been extra dear to Tara. After church we went to the Cracker Barrel for our 1:30pm lunch. They were just closing their doors because nearby construction was going to shut off the water supply. We barely made it in time to have our traditional meal there. It seems like no time has passed at all since Allen's adoption. And we love that we're so popular up here - everyone wants to see us. I know it's really the kiddos they want to see, but we love it!



Today Hannah has a check-up so we'll head over and spend more time with Jim and Tara and the boys. They seem to be holding up pretty well, but I think they're just thoughtful enough of our feelings that they aren't letting us see them in their grief. I truly appreciate that because my heart has felt broken at every adoption. It is a beautiful thing, and truly God's work, but it is so painful, too. I remember that Marie tried to not cry in front of us, too. And when she placed Katy in my arms, I was sobbing so hard that she was comforting me. It's truly a miracle to see how our babies come into our family.



Well, that's it for now. I'll try to post pictures again soon.