he's a Burick

Everything is going SO well for Josh and Vlad so far. Josh has unfortunately had unreliable internet, otherwise he would be writing this himself. I miss him so much and it is strange to be apart. But I love that he gets to have this experience with Vlad -- such a special and unique time together as father and son.

Josh arrived on Sunday afternoon and got to Vlad's region on Monday. He and Vlad were able to visit with each other that afternoon and it was truly a sweet reunion. At first, Vlad came out of his room and was a bit dazed, as though he couldn't believe Josh had come back for him. But when Josh picked him up and held him, Vlad just pressed his cheek against his and wanted Josh to hold him. He was gripping him so tightly. And then it was like Vlad was completely energized by being with Josh and he was running around and playing with Josh, just like old times.

Today, Josh spent running around doing all the paperwork. Today is considered Vlad's OFFICIAL adoption day because the ten day wait is over, all the paperwork was finalized, and his birth certificate was issued as Vladislav Sorin Burick. So, we will always celebrate April 12th -- it's like a second birthday. After picking up the court decree, they got Vlad's new birth certificate, applied for his passport, and closed out his orphan bank account which will be donated to the orphanage. Vlad got to come with Josh for part of the day to get his passport photos taken. They had a great time together on their first outing outside the orphanage gates.

And Josh got a bunch of helpful information today like what Vlad's typical schedule and diet is like -- all good to know as he transitions into our family. I can't believe it -- in about a week, he will be walking into our home for the first time. An orphan no more. Now a son, a brother, a nephew, a grandson, a Burick. Yep, he's a Burick.