We're official!

We're official: Rafael's adoption finalization occurred on December 27, 2007!  What a Christmas gift it was.  Nicole's mom and dad were with us for the momentous occasion.  It was a short but moving event with our lawyer and staff of the adoption agency with us.  We went out afterward to celebrate with some champagne.  Rafi was, as usual, a prince throughout.

The holidays were fun, both in Houston and home, and this was truly the capper. Two photos from the big day here -- one taken just after the signing of all of us with the presiding judge. The second was after our celebratory brunch.  We couldn't have been happier...then or now!

Happy Holidays from Rafi!

In all likelihood, this very sweet image of Rafi by the Christmas tree willl be our holiday card to friends and family this year...we attempted to do the cute photo card thing but I'm not sure it's going to happen in time. So we thought we'd post the contender for the front of our would-be greeting here.

Happy holidays to all...with much love.

The holiday photo shoot

Rafi, who turns seven months old tomorrow, is enjoying his first Christmas tree and the wonder of the twinkling lights...we tried to stage a few holiday pictures in front of the tree but realized he was dressed, again, in his Janis Joplin t-shirt. He has other clothes but he really looks pretty cute in the Janis tshirt, so it's a favorite. Plus we wanted Stella in the shot and the baby + dog photo is very hard to capture. We may need a second take...and possibly a wardrobe change.

For now it's snow snow and more snow around these parts. It definitely feels like the holiday season here. We are expecting another foot in the next day or so. Flying to Houston on Tuesday where it's 75 degrees. Can't wait.

A few pictures of the attempted holiday photo shoot -- Rafi, Stella, the tree.