Thursday, January 3, 2008

Family Reaction to Ethiopian Adoption

Anyone who knows me knows that when I make a decision about something, I am committed to the decision and move forward. So, it is difficult for me to relate in some ways to the angst that some adoptive parents have when telling their family and friends about their plans to adopt.

I thought that I would share the first conversion that I had with my father about this adoption.

Ring. Ring.

Me: Hey Dad. Busy?

Dad: No, what's up?

Me: I have some news for you.

Dad: Okay. Shoot.

Me: I've decided to adopt.

Dad: (Full of excitement) What? Oh, honey that is just great! Well, as long as you're not trying to go to Africa or something silly like that.

Me: Well, I'm going to Ethiopia.

Dad: Ethiopia...? In Africa...?

Me: Yep and I'm bring home two Ethiopian kids.

Dad: Well, honey I think that is just fantastic. (Pause) Africa? Are you being serious?

Me: Yes sir, I am.

Dad: That is just fantastic. (My father is always the politician)

Me: Hey dad, you wanna go with me to get the kids?

Dad: Really? I wouldn't miss it for the world.

THE END

My father at 71 travels the country participating in senior Olympic track meets. Now, my father is so anxious rushing around getting shots and passports. Yesterday we were talking about the trip and he could hardly contain himself when I told him that he could possibly go to the track or see the Ethio Olympic athlete's training facility.

His only request was that we stay in a place with indoor plumbing. Okay Dad. No problem. Then he said, "well I hope they are as happy to see granddaddy as he is to see them." I wasn't sure what my children would call him. Now I know!

THE BEGINNING

6 comments:

beth said...

Hi Valarie,

I love your blog and have been reading it and watching all of your interesting videos (I think they are singing "happy and you know it" in english!) I'm the one that emailed you a while back with questions and conversation. I'm so excited to watch your journey!
Beth

VALARIE said...

Thanks, Beth. They are singing, "If you're happy and you know it..." Isn't that wild?

Debbie said...

How awesome to read your conversation with your dad!! I have tears in my eyes! I am happy for you that he is going with you!

God bless your journey!
Debbie Wankel

Amy B. said...

I just came across your blog from another site. Your post about your dad was so touching. It is so exciting that he is going with you...and that he is so happy about meeting his grandkids. It is really sweet.

Amy
www.ourjourneytoethiopia.blogspot.com

Nicholas said...

I love your Dad - how wonderful is he??? Really now, he's too cute!

Deanna said...

Wow! What a blessed daughter you are!

Original Court Date: April 18, 2009
Final Court Date: May 18, 2009
[607 total days & 165 days w/IAN]