Sigh.

There weren't too many pictures of us for the rest of our stay in the hospital. We were very stressed that they would change their mind and decide to parent.  It was the biggest hill that we went through.

 More details on that, in this post.

The nurses were really impressed that we stayed the whole time and that he never went into the nursery (without having to take him for a checkup).  I was really surprised to learn that most adoptive parents leave the baby in the nursery until the papers are signed. It broke my heart for all the babies in there that aren't bonding to anyone for those three (or so) days.   I am using this as a call to all adoptive parents, if you are in the position to stay in the hospital with your potential child.  Please do it.  I understand that you could have your heart crushed.  I've been there. But I am so happy with our choice and so happy with every choice we've faced when dealing with all previous potential children.  I really believe it's better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all. 

Well this was just after we got the call that Bear is ours. 

I kid you not, Bear gave about five HUGE smiles right after we found out.  

Smiles so big a newborn wouldn't normally give.  Of course I missed them all but this it the very end of the last smile.  It melted my heart and I gave a huge sigh. 

After a great nights rest at home Mimi brought the girls home to meet Bear. 

They were SOOO excited! 

Honey was of course all over him. 

And then something so unbelievable adorable happened. 

They started fighting. 

They fought over who got to hold him.  And who got to kiss him.  And who's brother he was. 

And Pumpkin has really amazed me.  She has always been such an outstanding big sister, but with Bear it's been different. She is very nurturing. Very protective. And way more hands on than with any other baby we've had. 

My saving grace, Mimi.