The 11th of october we had a final session with a judge, colloquially known as 'Barboso', i.e. 'the one with the beard'.
On hold in the secretary's office with the translator and our adoption intermediary.
The judge asked a couple of odd questions. Luckily, we were prepared to that, so we can answer them in an acceptable way. Next the judge signs the verdict: Augusto now belongs to us for ever!
Augusto thinks it all very booooooring. He starts to misbehave in such a manner that he almost sollicits a slap that could have been fatal for the adoption procedure.
 |
At the administrative conclusion of te verdict, coincidentally we bump into one of Augusto's best play mates from the children's home, Junio. Half a year ago Junio has been adopted by Brazilian parents. For local adoptions the trial period is much longer than for foreign ones, allowing our paths to cross. Junio's new mother appears left on the photo. The unexpected meeting is celebrated with an enthousiastic high energy game of indoor tennis, as of old. When Junio's papers are completed the former friends say goodbye with a 'bear hug'. Hardly any words are being exchanged. |
Next, Augusto's brand new official father takes over Junio's racket. A tv reporting team passing by films a few shots. Although they present themselves as a local station, they turn out to be from the nationally broadcasted station Globo from Rio.The shots are aired the next day and immediately we are being recognized and congratulated at the air line office, the hair dresser, etc. Later it is told to us it is very risky to seek publicity during an adoption procedure. Augusto's acquaintances from a former life could be inspired to bad thoughts. That we did not think of. So far things turn out favorable for us ...
To "A dream that fits perfectly" | the Home Page
Version 17-10-99