barbara heirearrison has more. >> reporter: a little girl with a bright hopeful smile. second time as a wednesday's child and still hoping to be adopted. >> it's so good to see you. you look nice. >> you're all grown up. >> reporter: 15 years since we first met, still a smile that rye flegts her enduring optimism. when she was nine, we visited wanted to be a judge some day to help children get adopted. >> welcome to my chambers. >> reporter: grown up now and just weeks away from getting her before lore's degree in criminal justice, she called us to share the news. and we planned a special surprise. this time at a different courthouse. >> welcome back. >> thank you. thank you. >> do you remember? >> i do. >> she was such a little thing. >> and now getting ready to graduate college. >> reporter: judge blackburn was thrilled to welcome her back. >> i was so proud of you then, but i was really excited to hear what you've been doing since then. >> reporter: she said the judge's advice about finishing school made a difference in her life. >> growing up in the system, being bu