Five years ago today we went to court and the judge said "DA!" That is the day D became our forever daughter, October 12, 2001. In some ways it seems eons ago and like we have never been without D. But then again it seems like only yesterday. It is so amazing how quickly time really does pass.

Our judge was terrific. He was pretty much all business during the proceedings, but did make a joke or two here and there. Especially when he asked hubby our Wedding anniversary and hubby answered two days off!! Of course, I couldn't say anything! When the judge is talking to one or the other of you, the one NOT being spoken too has to zip their lips. So my eyes just got big and I looked at the judge and smiled. He laughed and asked hubby, "are you sure?" Afterward he took pictures with us. He was great. It made my first time in a court room a little more tolerable.

October 12 is also Grandma's birthday, so in 2001 she received the best birthday present ever! Her first grandchild. Happy birthday Grandma!

Now my baby girl is nearly 6 years old! It is so hard to believe.

Her Russian passport is about to expire and we need to renew it. I've got to take her to have her passport picture made so we can get that done. I inquired of the Russian Consulate to make sure we would receive her old one back because that baby picture in the passport is too precious! They assured me we would get it back. Just in case we have court for V over Christmas time, we'll take D with us, so she needs a valid passport.

Happy family day D! I love you so . . .