The day was December 19, 2007, and it was a bit rainy. The court appointment was early, and we were all kind of nervous. But Judge Stott made us feel at ease. Not only that, but he made us feel special. He was very pleased with this step we were taking and assured us that it would be a special day that we'd remember for a long time. I'm not sure why, but the way the judge spoke about the adoption pleasantly surprised me. I guess I was expecting a cold, business-as-usual feeling.
Not only was the judge pleased, but it was quite obvious that his secretary and the bailiff were happy as well. They were practically beaming! Since then, I've tried looking at ourselves through those people's eyes. What they saw were two wonderful boys that needed a dad to love them and be with them. They saw a husband and wife that loved each other and would love the boys. Sure they were happy for Jess and me, but they were happier for Aidan and Kellan, because their future was now bright and full of promise!
As I've thought about these events and about Aidan and Kellan, considerable emotion has welled up inside me. And whenever we drive by the courthouse, I point it out to the family and ask them what is so special about it. The boys are now used to that routine, and I hope they tell their kids about it.
Next up . . . The Temple!
