I did not know this!

[bosco64]

A wonderful story all around...congratulations John.

[johnallg]

Thanks for the kind comments. It has indeed been an amazing experience, one I would not have ever imagined happening.

Many times these types of reunions do not go well; sibling jealousy, child having thoughts of rejection, etc., but there's been none of that, just happy times.

What's been amazing are the number of things we have in common, stuff that genetics shouldn't play a part of. My dad is an inveterate wood worker and a pilot, passions we've shared independently. We've also faced some rather similar difficulties in life on a number of levels.

That isn't to say there aren't some differences. He plays no musical instruments, for example. By training he's a physicist but an architect and contractor by profession.

As noted, I have five half-sisters, a half brother and untold numbers of nieces and nephews. I haven't met them all yet but my youngest sister and I really get along well. Siblings are an entirely new concept to me but I have to say that I really enjoy being the oldest!

None of this diminishes my feelings about my adoptive parents and gaining a whole new family this late in life is nothing but a big plus.

It's got to be exciting, rewarding, and fun all at the same time. Enjoy.

[johnhall]

Bottom line, how many of us 60 years old plus are GAINING parents or siblings? For that alone, it feels pretty good.

[rikk]

Congrats! Great story. Life is wonderful.

[melibreits]

Wow.... what a heartwarming story! Congrats, Mr. Hall!

This is especially touching to us, because my husband was adopted, and has tried to search for his birth parents, but so far no luck. You are truly blessed!

[bartyclue]

Christmas shopping list just got a whole lot longer...

[mgauction]

This is really terrific, John! Nearly fell apart reading it.