This is the 10th installment in a series of columns I am devoting to the adoption journey my wife, Claudette, and I started in 2005. Hank Bond, publisher and editor of the Greenup Beacon, asked that we share our story with you. Maybe you have an interest in adoption or know someone who does. If so, I hope this information is helpful.

According to another entry dated January 29, 2007, and titled “Overnight Part II”:

“Well, it's now 4:15 a.m., and we're still wide awake (well, I am; Claudette is about half asleep, and Josie is wound up and playing at 100 percent.).

I'm going to wear out our digital camera and camcorder.  But that's what they're for.”

“We will be going to the Civil Affairs office again to complete some paperwork.  That's all we have on our agenda today.  I don't look for us to venture out very far from the hotel.  You (with the exception of Doug and Tonia, and several others who are visiting our site often) would not believe the traffic in China.  It amazes me how people keep from getting killed.  I noticed it seems the priority is (1) vehicles, (2) mopeds/motor scooters, (3) bicycles, and (4) pedestrians.  I asked John, our guide about it, and he said traffic has become a real problem throughout China, but (in my words) unlike in the U.S. where road rage seems to be the norm these days, the Chinese people do not get angry at those who pull out in front of them or walk in front of them.  They simply beep their horns to let you know they are there and they work as a ‘team’ to ensure everyone gets where he/she is going.  It would make me a nervous wreck to drive in Chinese traffic.  Our driver (I don't know his name) is excellent and is very smooth and laid back when driving in conditions I consider dangerous.”

“Josie is watching some sort of Chinese children's show right now.  She is glued to it!  A little girl of about 6 or 7 years old is singing, while another little girl and a little boy are dancing in costumes.”

“I picked Josie up a while ago and took her to the mirror and she enjoyed seeing herself and ‘Papa.’”

“I keep shooting photos trying to catch the beautiful smile Claudette and I sometimes see.  I'll shoot it very soon I'm sure.  Josie is on the bed with all of her toys ‘talking’ as she plays.  She is so sweet and precious and tiny.  Claudette and I have been playing with Josie's toys with her.  She is having fun.”

“I'm going to try to get back to sleep, at least for another couple of hours.  Then we're going to chat via web cam with Brock, Blake, Mamaw, Papaw Larry, Papaw Terry, Nana, Aunt Melanie (and gang), Aunt Paulette (and gang), and Aunt Michelle.  Sorry if I've left anyone out; that's the latest update (I have) on who's attending the web cam chat with us!”

“We'll write more tonight and post more photos of our precious daughter.”



Terry L. Hapney, Jr., Ph.D., is a professor in the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism and Mass Communications at Marshall University, and an eastern Greenup County native. He may be reached at hapney@marshall.edu.



Here's the newest Kentucky Wildcats fan--Josie Claire Siyan Hapney! "Go Big Blue!" She's going to look good dressed in UK, Marshall, University of Dayton (Daddy's alma maters), and Shawnee State University (Mommy's alma mater) attire!