Even more grandparents-to-be get the big news

Here's Clare's story of what it was like to tell her own dad the happy news that she's expecting his first grandchild:

"We were able to break the big news to my dad and my brother in person when they passed through Washington DC on their annual summer motorcycle trip.

We had been anxiously looking forward to their arrival for over a week. As soon as John and John (yes, more Johns) arrived we began dinner preparations to feed the hungry travelers. The day had been longer than they expected.

Ross set the table with three wine glasses and while we were all seating ourselves my brother John asked, 'Why aren't you having any wine?'

When asked point blank, and in person, it was harder than I thought to make up an excuse. I could only stammer, 'You'll find out.'

'Do you have some news to share with us?' He grinned.

At that moment, Ross and Dad joined us and I was saved from having to disclose more information. Dinner began.

Sometimes it's tough to find a segue way into a conversation, especially when you really, really want to say something. It took a while, but eventually the talk turned to photography, and I ran to get the ultrasound picture. Presenting it to them, I said, 'I have a picture for you.'

Dad lifted it up and stared at it. 'Really? Does this mean what I think it does?'

'Yup!'

'Oh, this is so great!' There were hugs all around and many congratulations. I think my dad was the most caught off-guard by the news. He had this look of excited amazement on his face for the rest of the visit.

He kept saying, in total disbelief, 'My baby's going to have a baby!'

The next morning I talked with my dad's new wife, Ann, and she was just as giddy with excitement.  It's so nice to know that along with my mom and dad, and Ross' mom and dad, both Jim and Ann are also looking forward to being Bucky's grandparents. This child is going to get a lot of love!"
--Clare, 8/5/05