Where does every great journey begin?---at the beginning, of course!

Our journey began sometime in October, 2003 or a bit earlier. We had heard some chatter about the possibility of an adoption, but no particulars were given. At first only domestic adoption was being considered. As you will soon learn, this is no easy decision.

The airwaves were quiet for some time. Then, one fateful day, our son-in-law came home from work and announced to our daughter that a man from work and his wife and children were coming for dinner the next evening.

They had recently adopted a baby girl from China and believed that it was the only way to go. Of course, as with any exciting experience, you want to share it with anyone who will listen. My son-in-law and daughter were prime candidates since they were in the decision phase of adoption.

The next evening they came for dinner. Our daughter literally fell in love with the baby from China. This was definitely a turning-point in the process.

Several nights later, we received a call from our children (son-in-law and daughter). They wanted to come to visit. This was nothing out of the ordinary, since it happens quite often. But this night would proove to be very different.

"We are considering a China adoption", said our daughter. "What would you think of having another grandchild?" Grandma and grandpa both teared up and chimed-out with a big "Wonderful"! As you grandparents know, you can never have too many grandchildren.

I always tell people candidly, "If I had known how much fun grandchildren are, I would have had them first." Our kids simply laugh knowing how we feel about them.