Meet the New Davis Family

We woke up this morning and prepared for court. We reviewed a few documents that might have been referred upon during the proceedings. Then it was 10:30 and time to go to court. We were very anxious and nervous, however we were told that there was nothing to worry about because we answered all the questions they had for us very well. We arrived at the court house to blustering wind and chilly temperatures. The couple that is with us adopting 2 boys was in court when we arrived. It was taking a long time and we browsed the open book market (in the front hallway of the court) as well as took special interest in the owner’s cat. Yes, the cat had free reign over wherever she wanted to go in the courthouse. We stood for about 1 hour waiting with our interpreter, each home’s director, and the court social worker. Finally the other couple appeared. We were told that they had a difficult court proceeding. The prosecutor grilled them and there were issues with their paperwork. Finally, they were granted adoption rights – but it was very difficult on the interpreter and court liaison – both who were representing us next.
We were escorted to the third floor into a small court room. Bear with me as I explain the room. It was about 15’x30’. There was one table with chairs for our interpreter, myself, Bryan, and our liaison. The orphanage directors and social worker sat in chairs across from us. Behind us was a metal cage – looked like a prison cell. Not a pretty sight!! The judge entered and we all rose. We were told that the prosecutor is disliked immensely by the directors of the orphanages and our interpreter because she asks “stupid questions and is very difficult for no reason”. The prosecutor spoke for a minute and then the judge immediately asked questions of the directors and social workers. We were told that this is not customary and there might be a problem. We were told that there was discussion over the boys’ parentage – when they were given up for adoption – did the father know and sign off on it – etc. They had to make 100% sure that there were no parents or family members that wanted the boys back. Bryan and I thought that something was going on that would allow us to only adopt one boy – not the other. It was a very frightening 10 minutes. After the judge and prosecutor were satisfied, the directors spoke about our visits. They were very complimentary. Sutton’s director stated that he asked several times where we were and had been waiting for us. When we returned, she said that he came straight to us. She also said that we are a loving couple and have bonded well with him. Sawyer’s director spoke saying that she believes that he remembered us from the first visit and that he took to us right away. There were questions asked about if they felt we could provide medical care needed – and both directors stated that we could without a doubt.
Then it was my turn to stand and answer to the judge. He asked about my name, address, how much income I made, why we wanted to adopt the boys – why from Russia. He asked how we plan to care for them and who would provide care for them first and then later. Thank goodness that mom is retired and Rosalie is at home – because that assistance knowing that family was right next door, stopped all other questions. I spoke of our daycare at the school and told the judge that they would attend when we felt they were acclimated. I also stated that we knew about their health concerns. I told them that Sutton would receive any speech therapy needed by professionals – and that Sawyer would be seeing a physician upon our return to the states. I explained that I am the director of a school that helps students learn English and that I am aware of how to communicate with the boys until they learn more English. Then it was Bryan’s turn – he got the easy questions!!! He was asked if it was his decision to adopt and that he was not just doing this because his wife made him – He answered that it was most definitely his decision as well. He asked about his income and if we have good credit. Then the judge’s phone rang – as Bryan was answering, he was checking his phone . He stated that he needed a short break. He left the room for a 5 minute recess. He returned and the rest was formality. The prosecutor did not have any more questions. Each director and social worker stood individually and stated that it was in the best interest of each boy to be joined with us. The judge left the room to complete the paperwork. He returned 10 minutes later to proclaim us as the official parents of Sutton Young Roman Davis and Sawyer Justice Gleb Davis. He stated that our names would be on their birth certificates. The judge left the room – and then it was time for tears and hugs. It is not customary to cry in the courtroom so I had to turn them off pretty quick, but we gave each director a hug, as well as the social worker, our liaison and our interpreter.
We are now at the apartment waiting for a phone call from our translator. We were told that she will call and give us a time to pick us up to go get both boys. By tonight, we will have both boys with us in the apartment. We are packing clothes to dress them in and a few gifts for the caregivers. We are so excited to introduce everyone to our family!!! We cannot post pictures until the 10 day period is up, but we will take pictures starting today. We did not take any pictures at the court – I was not sure if we could because there are many soldiers / police that are all around it and it just did not seem appropriate. We love you all so much! I can’t believe that we are finally the parents of two wonderful little boys – and that our court proceedings went so smoothly – Thank you for all the prayers for a smooth day today. Now we just need a few more to get us through our first few days and nights together until we get to know each other as a family. Love to all!