Becoming US Citizens

Paper Work

We go to our appointment for immigration. It is ten thirty am, cars parked each side of the street, a line of people outside,close to one hundred. We walk to the head of the line, no waiting. We have an appointment and we are American citizens. In our hands are eight sets of documents along with pass port photos for each of the girls. Leaving our facilitator, who cannot enter, we pass through security and a somewhat long path to the correct office where a very helpful, English speaking, officer helps us submit our documents for the girls to immigrate. They will now become US citizens. Our English speaking clerk has the approach of how can we make this work. The feeling I get is I am already approved, now lets just get this paperwork filed so you can receive your needed documents.

After Immigration we go to the American health examinations where the wait is somewhat longer. We are done and at lunch by two pm. The girls are tired and ask to go home instead of staying out. They catch a two hour nap as Susan and I visit. Tomorrow at two we will be back with our completed health exams to pick up their American passports.

Later in the day while playing Uno I tell Alina that tomorrow she will be an American citizen just like Mama and Papa. The conversation goes like this.

“Mama and Papa.... American citizens

Alina Yes. I understand

Tomorrow; You, American citizen. Same as (Sze) Mama and Papa

Alina OH! Y---e--- SSSSS!!!!!!

I think back to the girl in the bowling alley in Zeporozia who said to me over and over. “Oh this is my dream, Oh this is my dream, to return to America. She had been to Orlando and worked for Disney for a summer. She would be one of those people outside the embassy asking for an appointment to apply for a visa. For just a temporary visa extensive work history must be shown with financial means to support yourself or a company willing to employ you. This is very difficult to receive.

Now, through adoption, Alina and Alessia will instantly become American citizens.