It was Easter.

One of the few years we’ve traveled to my husband’s family for this holiday. But we had something to tell them. Now you have to know that this side of the family is where the little kids are. With a 12 year old, 9 year old and four more under 5, this Easter egg hunt is for realsies. My in-laws home was warm and comforting, decorated in pastel colors, and spring flowers. Shiny green grass poked through each kids’ basket, disheveled by eager fingers. Jelly beans went missing way before dinner was served and the typical bunny was missing his ears, and his tail, just like last year.

 As I sat at the table, organizing this monumental  feast onto a plate not sized for such lavishness, I felt my breath catch in my throat. It quickly subsisted as I remembered how well things went during the first announcement. This would be just as enjoyable I was sure. They would be happy to say the least.

 I was right.

My husband declared our announcement among the other family conversation. Some wonderfully endearing things happened. Even as he explained that we were hoping for a little girl, her age range and nationality, his brother left his food, walked around the table and hugged us. His sister followed. That’s a big deal; leaving an Easter meal to offer an awkward hug. Especially for a guy. Especially for his brother.

His parents had no expression of surprise, but only delight.

It was as if they knew we were doing this long before we did. They exclaimed words like “wonderful news” and “very excited.”  Moments later my mother in law explained how they had determined to set aside time to better lend support, encouragement, and practical help once our girl was home. So we had everything we needed. All over again.

The day went on and the news sank in.

It came up in conversation as easily as we spoke about the chill in the air and the promise of Spring. It was comfortable, natural. We answered basic questions as best we knew. My heart was warmed as my brother in law said “Well, go get her! I want to meet my niece.”

Oh little girl. You are loved so much already.

I had to smile when I was instructed to stay away from a family member who might have measles. As if I was physically pregnant, not just paperwork pregnant. This news was real to them. And that made it all the more real to us.

My favorite moment of the day came near the end.

I knelt down to talk to my 5 year old niece. She asked what adopted was. It was such an innocent and intimate question. I remember when life was simple like this. I told her plainly. “Across the ocean is a little girl who doesn’t have a family. Uncle Arthur and Aunt Liz want to be her family. So we are going to go get her and be her mommy and daddy.” Explaining she will have another little cousin to play with. To which her Momma chimed in, “We are going to love her lots.”

 Oh my goodness. Yes we are.