I've spent an awful lot of time lately focusing on the "cons" of this adoption. The process has taken it's toll on me: I've had some grey hairs since I was 18, but now they're starting to take over and that little line on my forehead has officially become a wrinkle. More than that, I'm so sensitive now that it doesn't take much to upset me. So tonight I'm going to focus on the positive.

The Pros:

• I'm hoping for a mid- to late-June court date. That means I'll have Peanut home before his 9th birthday in July.
• Peanut will have a few months to adjust before starting school. He's a good student, so I've been worried about how he'll do with the language barrier. Not doing well will frustrate and upset him. Over the summer I'll be able to work with him and help his English develop a bit before school.
• I won't have to travel to Siberia in the winter.
• Lighter clothes = Margaret being able to pack more.
• The delays have given me more time to come up with the money.
• In summer, everything here will be familiar for him which will help him adjust.

So it's not all bad. I'm really pinning my hope on June, which is potentially setting myself up for disappointment again. But I have to have something to aim for. Another summer with Peanut is a good thing to look forward to.