Proud to be an American

Today was a BIG day for our family. Big as in waited 18 years for this BIG!

 Hubby became a citizen.

And changed his name. For reasons of privacy, I won't divulge any more details, but for those of you who know us, this has been a very long and arduous road with many delays. Thank the Lord it finally happened.

Waiting in the 30 minute line to get inside the building

Boyo was thrilled for Daddy to become a "Merican"

All dressed up to celebrate

Waiting in the TWO HOUR line inside the building

Daddy saying his new name!

The pledge of allegiance

The kiddos couldn't sit still or quietly enough in the courtroom, so they had the run of the lobby!

The kiddos were champs. After getting there at 8:30 am for the 9 am start time, we only got out of there at 12:30 pm!! Apparently it was a special ceremony for all those who wanted to change their name and only happens every three months or so. There were about 200 participants, each of whom had to say their new name, plus an address by the presiding judge, as well as one by a visiting speaker. Oh, and before all 1.5 hours of that, after everyone was finally settled and quiet and in the correct order in the courtroom, we sat and waited for THIRTY minutes for the judge to appear!

Of course I had no idea it would be that long, so I didn't take enough snacks, diapers, milk, books or toys. They did awfully well considering although we spent most of the actual ceremony out in the lobby. Ha! But we were there and have the photos to prove it. Whew!

Now we're ALL Americans!!

Congrats on this long awaited day Husbie. Welcome to the USA!