Jose & Dad, 2005

We returned home from the family reunion and received word that Jose’s adoption was finalized July 29th. He is legally Jose Angel Jolliffe-Haas. His middle name was from his birthmother and he loves his middle name. Matt’s middle name was Cale and his surname, Edwards. I suggested he keep his last name as his middle – Matthew Edwards Jolliffe-Haas. While we were at Dr. Carter’s a few weeks back, he asked Jose about his middle name and Dr. Carter said, “Oh, ‘Ahn-hel.'” Jose loved the Spanish pronounciation and has since been using it. When I read the letter, I took Jose out on to the deck and told him that he was legally and offically my son. The child was thrilled.

Although Jose has been my son since before he arrived, it is a calming feeling to have everything signed and sealed.

Matt’s first day in Ohio, August 8, 2002.

Today is the third anniversary of Matt’s arrival in Ohio. I cannot believe how much he has grown, and just how much he has developed into the fine young man I knew he would.

Every day seems like Father’s Day.