Donald and Priscilla Dollar
When you found out about Robbie and Amy, what did you think?
A young couple not ready for a child; an older couple needing a child to complete their family.
Describe your first impressions of when you met them?
Attractive, athletic, warm and friendly, sincere, somewhat immature, and with a youth yet to be fulfilled. I knew Don and De would be great parents. There was an immediate bonding between the two families.
How did you prepare for the birth & adoption of Deanna?
Offered our approval and support. Was very happy for them.
What did your extended family say about the adoption?
Everyone was so excited. Everyone thought Don and De would make good parents.
What did your friends say about the adoption?
Most didn't understand the meaning of open adoption. They expressed concern.
How did you adjust to the adoption?
Just like you would to any new baby arriving...anticipation, awe, love.
How do/did you tell people about the adoption?
We flew pink balloons, called friends and family, and answered questions in a open manner.
What questions do people always ask you about the adoption? And how do you answer?
Most wonder how the birth parents are coping; will they try to get the baby back; etc. Most think it is great that Deanna will know her extended families in a natural and familiar way.
What has contact been like since Deanna was born?
Do you mean contact between us and others? Actually Deanna turned out to be a "community" baby. She had so many people involved with her arrival that I felt somewhat crowded out. It seemed every time I visited or got to hold Deanna there was someone taking her out of my arms. We had to share her with so many people.
What event stands out in your mind about our journey? (whether funny, silly, serious, sweet)
How easy Don and De adjusted to a new baby; How good Deanna was as an infant; How surprised De was to find out she could be a mother; What a natural father Don was; How Don and Robbie and his family became in so entwined in NCS football; How independent and intelligent Deanna has become.
