Back to PAC!

Way back in October of 2006 when we were in the earliest stages of the adoption process, one of the first requirements made of us, was to attend a two day workshop creatively titled "Pre-Adoption Class" or more commonly referred to as "PAC" (our thoughts regarding these classes are detailed on the October 20, 2006 entry). On the last day, the final activity planned for the prospective parents was to attend a dialogue regarding the adoption process put on by adoptive parents. I remember so clearly each family that spoke to us and will probably never forget what those adorable babies looked like. It was such a good and much needed reminder that there really was a baby waiting for us at the end of this roller-coaster like process. Well, fast forward a year and half to today, and we (yes, even Graham!) were on the parent panel! It felt so good to have come full-circle in the process and be excited to talk about how not only did we survive the seemingly endless wait, but how when it comes time for Graham to have a sibling, that we'll be excited to jump back on the roller-coaster again. I really felt for for the couples who sat intently listening to each word we said. They all had such longing looks as they stared at the babies. I know that it's very hard so early in the process to really believe that your own families would soon be growing. Hopefully, even one thing I said, will help someone during their own process.

After our meeting, we joined Grandma and Grandpa Olson for dinner. Graham got a little tired (aka fussy) towards the end of the meal, but other than that did a great job. He's able to amuse himself for quite a while now that he's able to eat soft finger foods. This is great, because it allows Jeff and I to eat an entire meal in one sitting! Graham apparently became bored with his peas though and decided the french fries on Grandma Olson's plate looked much more appealing and tried repeatedly to grab them. Now, for those of you that know Grandma Olson, you know that she's the healthiest eater on the planet and you're probably wondering if you read correctly when I said she was eating french fries. Well, yes, you read correctly, she was eating french fries, and they were fantastic! I think those of us at dinner tonight can highly recommend the St. Claire Broiler for fries and hot fudge shakes!

Graham is modeling yet another new hat. In Minnesota wearing a hat isn't an option for him, so I figure he might as well have a variety! We think this one is pretty cute, as it makes his adorably big cheeks seem even bigger!