Registration and notary day

Aug. 24, 2010

Madison's footprint is placed on the adoption certificate!

Madison's adoption is now official! She is legally our
daughter!

Madison experiences one of those sad, uncertain moments with
her new parents.

Madison enjoys her time at the kiddie
pool.

Today we went back to the registration office to receive Madison's completed adoption certificate.  Once that was completed we went to the notary and finalized her paperwork.  Madison is OFFICIALLY adopted!

Our prayers have been answered about her bonding with us. She still has a few moments of sadness, but I believe she already realizes that we are her "mama" and "baba." We realize we still have obstacles ahead with bonding, but so far, we have been very blessed.

This afternoon was pretty laid back. After Madison's nap we had a play date in the playroom of our hotel. Madison still stays close to Phil or I, but she's beginning to venture out to play with other children. After that, off to the swimming pool. Initially she liked it, but because she was tired, we didn't stay long. Her first "official" bath was a hit. She enjoys the water and splashing herself. As you will see in the pictures, she's already becoming quite the ham. She is now sleeping peacefully.

Phil and I are now both experiencing what many don't talk about during the adoption process. While we are LOVING our time with Madison, we are ready to be home. Seth and Taylor are on our hearts constantly. We miss them and want to hurry and bring their sister home. Unfortunately, the way the process works, we have no control over the time factor (we have to be here two weeks). Please pray that Madison continues to bond and that Phil and I aren't quite so homesick.

Madison thoroughly enjoys her "first" bath with us. She loves
splashing in the water.