EE Mission Day 32 - Court Hearing for Kathleen

So, we finally had out court hearing for Kathleen on 01/10/2012 at 2pm... 

Now, with Mila Gayle's court hearing, we experienced a rather quick (about 15 minutes) process.  The hearing was held in the judge's chamber.  The judge, prosecutor, and city representative, who were all very nice, did not really ask us any of the typical questions we had prepared for; some including:

• Why do you wish to adopt?
• What guided you in your decision to adopt a special needs child?
• Why did you decide to adopt from Ukraine?
• How will you care for the child?
• What role does your government play in helping care for the child?

For Kathleen's court hearing, the event was much different.  First of all, our facilitator told us she would not be there, and that we would have another translator.  She did assure us that this would not be a problem.  Although a little nervous, our trust in the "RR team" here in country helped us overcome what little nervousness we had.  Once we picked up our translator (Nadya), and made introductions, we felt totally comfortable.

We arrived at the court building and waited.  During our wait, Nadya told us some encouraging background on this judge.  This was very comforting...

Entrance to court building

We entered the court room and sat down as we waited for the judge.  Right from the start, we sensed this would be a different experience than the quick session we had for Mila...

The hearing started with the judge introducing the parties involved; the prosecutor, the city official, the orphanage representative, the 2 citizen witnesses, and the court recorder.  The judge then reviews our rights.  Then the questioning started...

Well, fortunately, we were prepared for the questions that we expected with Mila's court hearing, because we received all of them, and then some.  The blessing of the detailed questioning included the opportunity to explain that our Christian convictions led us to our decision to adopt.

After about an hour long session, the judge called recess as she went to process her decision.  After about a 10 minute wait, she returned with blessed news; ruling in favor of our petition to adopt Kathleen! 

Then, after a few minutes, the judge returned to hold what she referred to as the "unofficial business".  We were completely surprised as she proceeded to present us gifts in celebration of our adoption!

Top:  CD of Ukrainian Christmas Carols
Bottom Left:  Orthodox Christian Icon for Prayer
Bottom Right:  Artwork created by residents of Kathleen's orphanage

Embroidered towel that signifies a Ukrainian story of one's life journey (Kathleen's).
The black color signifies sadness (for her leaving her home land)
The red color signifies love she will receive during her journey. 
It was stressed that there is more red (love) than black (sadness) on the towel.  

Doll wearing traditional Ukrainian clothing for Kathleen to have 

She even asked for a picture to be taken of everyone involved...

So, based on the court ruling, we are now parents of Yana Kathleen Kimble!