10 years later, Dillon is a recognized US citizen

We were supposed to complete this process many many years ago.  You see, it is a long story.  I've told it before, but here goes again.  For more than 10 years now, children are considered American citizens when they land in the States with their adoptive families.  However, the bureaucracies haven't figured out exactly how to recognize them as so.  The Certificate of Citizenship is the last hoop in a loooooong series of hoops that international adoptive families jump through.

Oh, and to file that paper, it just happens to cost 550.00! 

Moving right along, we finally had our appointment for Dillon's certificate(I kept dragging my feet).  Abby's was several years ago.  I entered this day highly annoyed!  Mike and I have been tax paying and law abiding citizens forever and it miffed me badly that we had to do this for our tiny child who poses no threat.   

First off, let me say kudos to the Irving USCIS field office!  It is easy to get to, is new and lovely.  The security guards were friendly....umm, I made several trips to the old office in Dallas during our adoption journey with Abby---NOT friendly.

The staff was so happy and genuinely enjoyed hosting the citizenship ceremony. A large crowd of immigrants and their families were there to celebrate.  They did a country roll-call and had everyone stand up when their country of origin was called out.  I kept tearing up seeing the adorable children dressed up for a momentous occasion.  One little Ethiopian girl had one a Star-Spangled Banner dress and was so stinkin' cute!

We said our pledge, sang the National Anthem, and watched a greeting from the President.  Then, drum roll please.....A video montage with Lee Greenwood's "I'm Proud to be an American."  After the song, the director was all choked up.  She had a strong Hispanic accent and talked about what a privilege it is to be a citizen of the USA and she is so thankful for her job and opportunities.  I teared up again.

It was a sweet and memorable occasion and I am so grateful to the fantastic job the USCIS office in Irving did.

Next year, and next time I get a spare 550.00---Hudson will become official.
We next dropped off donations of new shoes to Shoes for Orphan Souls at Buckner International.  The huge pallet behind us is full of shoes for orphanages in Ethiopia.  Such an easy and sweet thing to gather at church...children's shoes.