THE JUDGE SAID YES!

We started the day early and were at the court house by 10 a.m. We met the social worker from Solotcha and the inspector. Our great translator, Irina, prepped us for court and then we had a pleasant surprise. Sasha and one of his teachers came in. He was so handsome, dressed in a little suit. He told the social worker last night that he was so excited and nervous that he probably wouldn't sleep at all. We were told that he would not have to appear in court, so we were not expecting to see him. While we were waiting court to start, a man walked by and shook Sasha's hand and told him not to be nervous. We found out moments later that he was our judge.

As we started court, the judge asked if we had any petitions and so we asked the judge to waive the 10 day waiting period. He told us that it is mandatory, passed a few years ago by the supreme court. The only way that the 10 day period would be waived was if Sasha had an urgent medical need. And thankfully he does not. Although we really wanted this 10 days to be waived - we trust God and know that this was His plan.

The rest of the court session went well. The judge asked questions to Keith and then me. Then he called Sasha in (again not expecting that). I was very nervous for him but he did so well! The judge asked him if he wanted to be adopted and he said "Yes!" He asked him some other questions and then Sasha went back out. After the questions were over, the judge took a few minute break. He came back in and said it is approved that Sasha will be our son! Praise the Lord!

We can't explain how great it felt and feels to see all of this come to pass. Thank you so much for your prayers and your support!

After court we went back to the orphanage to spend a little more time with Sasha. The children were putting on a concert, that we got to watch. These children are so talented! In the midst of such a great day, I couldn't help with being overcome with sadness. These children were performing with such great talent and smiles and had no mom or dad to hug them afterwards and tell them they did a great job.

Please keep praying. It was hard to leave today and it was hard for Sasha. Thankfully he understands that we are coming back and in just a short time. Please pray for the other children as well. Victor, a friend of ours who graduated a few years ago from the orphanage, said every time new parents came to adopt he thought "maybe they are here for me." Although Sasha is rejoicing, there are a lot of other children who are sad as they await the same. PLEASE PRAY for these little ones.

To end on a good note: Sasha's already been telling people, "MY NAME IS ALEXANDER (SASHA) JOHN THOMPSON! And my momma and papa are Erin and Keith and I have a brother, Isaac."

GOD IS GOOD! AMEN!