We just wanted to let you know that today we finally had our court appointment to re-adopt the girls in Illinois. The hearing itself went off without a hitch, and only took about fifteen minutes. This re-adoption is mostly a formality. It makes it easier for the girls to get birth certificates in the U.S., and I think it makes it easier for them to acquire U.S. passports. It also officially makes their last name Brooks, rather than Brooks Wett. Wett is Andrea's maiden name. It is customary in Spanish speaking cultures for people to have both the last name of the father, which is listed first, and the last name of the mother, which is listed second. So, when they were adopted in Peru their new birth certificates and passports gave them the last name of Brooks Wett. Of course, that custom doesn't work so well here, and it even confused the judge. Most people here, when they see their full name think their last name is Wett, and Brooks is a second middle name. So, this change will make things a little easier down the road.
It has now been just over six months since the official adoption in Peru. Everything with us has been going fairly well. We have had our first post placement visit which will happen twice a year for the next four years. These visits are required by Peru as a way of monitoring how the girls adjust in their new family and community. The girls have adjusted quite easily to the American lifestyle. They have learned quite a bit of English, but of course, have a long way to go. The boys and girls for most part get along, but there have been a fair share of brother and sister arguments, except for Andrew who gets along with everyone. School homework for the girls has by far been the biggest struggle, but that's mostly for mom and dad. Our weekday evenings are now pretty much consumed with translating and teaching. It almost feels like we are homeschooling. We are definitely looking forward to summer. Next year, we hope, will be much easier as they get a better grasp of English, and as they catch up to their grade levels in science and social studies.
Once again, thank you for all your prayers and support.
The Brooks Family - Tim, Andrea, Loren, Veronica, Donna, Josh, T.J. and Andrew
2 comments:
Hey Guys,
I found your blog through Hogar de Esperanza. I found them through a search for Children's homes in Peru. I'm a photographer currently serving in the City of Arequipa Peru at New Hope Children's home. I really love your blog. I I haven't read much of it, but just the little I have read makes me want to keep you guys in my prayers with all the transitions you are making. Thanks for all you have done! Should you wish to view my blog, its http://www.sethshimkonis.com/blog
Hi, I love reading your adoption story and with interest noted Raul Alva and his wife, Maria Elena, in your pictures. My son was adopted from Peru in 1993 and Raul was our lawyer. I would like to get in touch with him. Can you connect me with him?
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