Today we had the opportunity to take the new girls to Warren County Probate Court and have their names legally changed and an Ohio Birth-Certificate issued.  It is the final part of the process of adopting them and we are now complete!

I am not sure how many times they have to send out Probate Court notices in triplicate!

The process was overseen by Chief Magistrate Carolyn Duvelius, who is always such a kind and caring public servant.  Unfortunately, SOME of our children have had to opportunity to see her more that others (read that: underage traffic violations).  But she has always been kind and fair.

In addition, Warren County Probate & Juvenile Judge Joe Kirby came by to visit and take a picture with the family.  He has been a wonderful asset to our family over the years, helping us with adoption paperwork and being overall supportive of the growth of our family.  He is not just a great judge;  he is a great man.  So happy that we got to see him today.

In the past, the judge would give each of the kids an American Flag at the end of this court appearance, but Judge Kirby decided to do something different when he came into office and commissioned a commemorative coin, which you can see below.

On the front side is the Court of Warren County Ohio Seal and on the reverse side is the State of Ohio, Judge Kirby’s name, and a quote that reads, “Family … where life begins and love never ends.”  It is a pretty awesome way to remember the day.

Time to close the door on this adoption and move forward to the next!  God has made this process so very rewarding.  It is always a blessing to follow His will.

Cameron