Today is the day we are heading to court. Hunter (Tina's ex ) and the family called to let us know that they were on their way to the attorney's office to get prepped to testify. The kids were up most of the night and so was James and I. James worked last night and told me this morning that he was still in Dry Ridge and it wasn't looking too good for him to make it home in time for court. He sure knows how to get the nerves going.
I spent most of my time praying and getting ready. James finally called and said he was on his way and it would be close. I ended up meeting him with a change of clothes in the Freightliner parking lot. He changed in the bunk and we were flying to the court house. We were the first ones to arrive. We sat on the bench twiddling our thumbs looking for familiar faces. Let me clarify "friendly" familiar faces. Hunter, Angel, Becca and James arrived and I nearly collapsed in their arms. So good to see them and have their support. Such an amazing extended family we have found ourselves with.
Court lasted 3 hours. It was so hard to listen to the testimony. The kids have experienced so many things that kids should not be exposed to. I just sat in my seat and cried. We all were. James sat at the table with the attorney and Tina was alone at her table. She made an attempt at a new attorney (her old one left her on account of lack of communication and cooperation) the judge ended up asking the attorney to leave (long story on that one). Three hours later we left with a verdict. The judge granted Tina SUPERVISED visitation for 2 hours a week at a counseling facility. Victoria is given an attorney of her own. I can't remember the term but it is some kind of guardian something and we are to go back to court on September 24th. We left happy, and relieved that Victoria will not be alone with Tina for at least a couple of months. We all celebrated with Homemade Pie and Ice Cream Kitchen.
After dessert we headed home for dinner. Victoria had been home anxiously awaiting the arrival of her brother and sister. She didn't fully know why they were in town she just knew that they were coming to see her. James and Becca decided to stay the night with us and boy are we glad that they did. We all sat around and ate pizza and my mom stopped by to meet everyone. We had a blast sitting and visiting.
The night ended with arms and legs hanging off of every side of the pull out couch. The night of make up application with the sisters, James and Anthony playing outside with the sidewalk chalk, and no sleep the night before took it's toll on us. Victoria was nuzzled in between her brother and sister. She was in hog heaven!
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