This Reminds Me

Archive for June 18th, 2006

We’ve been working with Julia to get her to respond “Julia Woodworth” when asked, “What is your name?”   Though she’s not doing so yet, we know she understands now she has two names – one unique (Julia), and one like the rest of us (Woodworth, or, as she says, “Woodworrrr.”)

She’s really “owned” a last name.  In fact – she wasn’t terribly familiar with her own first name (“Guanna”), which has no easy Russian translation.  The orphanage workers called her by a confusing array of names, including her pet name, “Juna” (hence our selection of “Julia.”)

This morning, our pastor referenced Ephesians 3:14-15 in his Father’s Day message.  For this reason, I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name.

Though I had problems taking it when we married, I’m glad I have Keith’s name now.  I’m glad our family has that thread of commonality.  When Julia starts at Stone Oak Elementary in the fall, I’m glad many will know her as “a Woodworth,” as “Hannah’s sister.”  I’m glad her Sunday School teacher knows her as “Rachel’s sister.”  I’m glad the siblings of Lois’ friends call her “Lois’ sister.”   I’m glad to add a fourth set of clear return address labels to the stack, ready to slap on any paperwork requiring  LAST NAME     FIRST NAME       M.I.

Because her last name gives her a place to start.  Without a place to start from, how do you ever go to anywhere?

Keith didn’t hear todah’s sermon because he was home tending to Lois-The-Urper.  He missed last Sunday because he was home with Rachel-The-Infected.  As soon as we returned home both Sundays, Julia and Hannah made a beeline to him for kisses and tickles.  Today Julia proudly gave him the colored paper tie she made in Sunday School.  Right now, Hannah is in her room finishing a Kleenex-cum-treasure box filled with a variety of drawings and good wishes. Each of the girls made him a card, and we managed to sneak our first four-girl portrait for him as a gift, which he’ll get after lunch.

I think I know the name for someone who warrants that kind of affection.

It’s not “Father.”  It’s not even “Dad.”

Sometimes it’s “Papa.”  But mostly – it’s just “Daddy.”

Happy Father’s Day, Keith!  And – while we’re celebrating – Happy Birthday to da blog, which is a year old now. It began as a Father’s Day gift to him.  Because he’s a gift to all five of us.

“Vow,” have things changed in one year!