“Is your name Cereza?” asked Judge Sharon LoVallo during the adoption proceeding.
“Yes,” answered Cereza. “And after today my last name is going to be Stadler!”
This answer warmed the hearts of everyone in the packed room of the Family Court despite the ongoing blizzard outside.
Corrine and Ben Stadler have been foster parents with Child & Family Services since October of 2016, with Cereza being placed into their care in July of 2017. On Thursday, February 27, though, the three became a forever family.
The joy was palpable throughout the afternoon, highlighted by Cereza’s infectious energy. Cereza ran through the hallways with her cousins prior to the proceedings, giggling as they chased one another. She beamed throughout the ceremony itself, clearly understanding the significance of the occasion. After the adoption was complete, Cereza was not only thrilled at the opportunity to sit on the judge’s bench, but she also ensured that all of her cousins were able to take a turn. While her cousins sat in the judge’s chair, Judge LoVallo asked Cereza about an upcoming trip to Disney World the family would be taking. Of all of the characters, Cereza said that she was most excited to see Pocahontas.
It was an afternoon filled with enthusiasm, but Cereza showed her excitement most during the adoption process itself. After Cereza confirmed her own name, Judge Lovallo gestured toward the Stadlers and asked, “And who are they? Are their names Corrine and Ben?”
“Yes,” glowed Cereza. “But now I get to call them Mom and Dad forever and ever!”
