Continued...

So Josh decided to go and say something. He said hi, introduced himself and apologized for staring, and told them that their family was beautiful. Then he explained that he was usually the one being stared AT, not the one doing the staring, and he told them about our family.

Turns out they had a great conversation…This family has nine kids, including several from Haiti and one from a domestic adoption, along with their biological kids. They were thrilled to hear about our family, and they talked with Josh about raising transracial families in small country areas, different adoption programs, their kids, our kids, finances, school, etc.

They had a funny moment when the mom tried to ask Josh how many of our kids were adopted…

She said, “How many are your natural kids? Oh wait…they are all natural kids. Umm, How many are your biological kids? Oh wait…all kids are biological. Crud, you can’t say anything and be correct anymore!”

And Josh said, “My wife gave birth to three kids. We adopted seven.” And they both laughed.

I am glad that we aren’t the only adoptive parents who can not keep on top of what is the politically correct and “right thing” to say at any given moment. :)

It was a good conversation and nice for both sides to connect with another large adoptive family.

So, that was Josh’s experience from being on “the flip side” of things. He was really glad that he went over and introduced himself, and realized how easy it was to “get caught staring.” I have to say that I love when we have other adoptive parents come over and say hi to us (it definitely is OODLES better than the critical old ladies or the “better you than me” moms.)

And, the next time you see a guy staring at your family, smile, because maybe, just maybe, it will be Josh.

Have a great weekend.