"Hello, Mother and Father" by Janet K. Baxter

Bonus Episode

—world family

Adopting Vietnamese children 36 years ago expressed and expanded love.

Janet K. Baxter lives in Kings Mountain, North Carolina and is a member of the Charlotte Writer’s Club. Her stories “Horse Whispering for the Average Woman,” “Southern Blues,” and “A Frank Lesson” have appeared in three collections of the Personal Story Publishing Project. Retired as Director of Special Education at the University of North Caroline-Charlotte, Janet enjoys her grandchildren and all the horses, dogs, and cats that populate her “mini-estate.” Janet's hobbies include horse riding and training, crocheting, yoga and tai chi, and letter-writing.

Author’s Talk

Janet K. Baxter

“Hello, Mother and Father” is a short beginning to a much longer, yet unwritten, story of our family’s journey together with Hwa and Duong. Hwa and Duong (names have been changed) are still part of our family. Now grown, Hwa’s daughters are also our granddaughters. Duong calls regularly and both attend our family holiday get-togethers.

Now that I’m retired, there is time to reflect and gain perspective about this experience. The story seems to write itself. Thank you for allowing me to share our beginning with you. And a special thank you to the Scribblers who support my writing, provide thoughtful feedback, and encourage me every step of the way.