Embassy Day 2

I already blogged about the 1st day at the Embassy but I wanted to tell you about Day 2 at the Embassy as it was suggest a momentous day in our life. Just like the day before, we met Rajeev in the lobby of our hotel. Traci, sweet Gracin, and Traci's dear friend Helen joined us as well. This was going to be a big day for all of us. It was great seeing Gracin today. It was her 3rd day with Traci and we could start to see Gracin opening up to her. Gracin was more outgoing today and not as sleepy. She was feeling so comfortable with Traci and Helen. It's always great to see kids developing their bonds with their parents.
When we got to the Embassy there was a long line but Rajeev worked his magic and we got in right away. No line for us. Once inside we waited for our names to be called. Part of the process to get a Visa is an interview. For adoption cases the interview questions are primarily did you like your agency, how long did your adoption process take. Our process from beginning to end took 2 years. I thought it was strange that the embassy official asked why it took so long. For us it took 2 years because it took us a year for find our current agency. And then of course several months were wasted when our orphanage license had to be renewed. The normal process does take 1 1/2 to 2 years. Most agencies take about 12 months just give a referral and then the remainder of the process takes 6 to 12 months. My agency of course is awesome and has quick referral times.
What made this day so great is twofold. First, at the embassy, there are many other families who are waiting for their Visa to bring their child home. It was so great to meet the other families and their children. We all shared the same joy.
The other great thing about this day is that we received Nathan's visa. This means he can come home. And it means the official end of the adoption process. Hooray Hooray Hooray for us and for Traci.