Catching-Up With Jeff
Thank you for listening, and for caring. When I said on the air that I come back to work humbled and appreciative, I need to tell all of you how appreciative I am that anyone would ever care about the life and goings on of an overweight, flawed, average guy from Wooster, Ohio. I am not extraordinary, but I am so thankful that God gave me a heart and ability to share my ordinariness in a funny, honest way. So…on with “Life at the Detrows” in the past 17 months.
First, the highlights on everybody, and then a little movie of our journey to adopt the newest Detrow, Mia.
OK, first me. Well, I got my tattoo fixed! I had admired the work of Alessio Ricci at Avalon 2 in North Park, so I went to him with an idea submitted by one of our listeners, and went from this:
to this
It’s still the same message, with the cross and my hometown, “Never forget where you came from, never forget where you’re going.” But it now has elements of the Great Seal of Ohio. Thanks Alessio. I’m coming back soon for my new one on the other arm. Here’s my new idea:
Now for the rest of the family:
Katy is still teaching school in Ohio. And she gave us a beautiful present! Annie joined her brother Finnigan on May 9th, 2010.
Cabot married Ceborah, and they moved to Escondido! Woohooo! They’re both working for Chase Home Finance in Rancho Bernardo. Check out these wedding pictures!
Mark is a Sophomore at Torrey Pines. Go Falcons!
Laura is a Freshman. She made cheer!
Elisabeth is a fourth grader. Liz also cheers for those Falcons.
Leroy Brown had a fun birthday in September.
And Kristen. Well, she wakes up every day to the call “Mama!” from down the hall, and that is the sweetest thing ever!
These 17 months of unemployment have been well used in my life. The hardest of the times have been times that I’ve been taught the biggest lessons. I used to say “Maybe the best thing God could do for a person would be to take it all away.” I think that was only something I said… lip service. It’s one thing to say it, but another to live it. I am glad I lived that lesson. I learned this simple lesson, and it applies to everything; I learned to put value in the things that can never be taken away. My wife, my kids, my family, my friends. I took too much of that for granted. I learned to love, really love, my wife, like I have never loved before. Kristen and I became inseparable as I learned to fully give myself as I never have before. Not for a moment did either of us walk through this by ourselves, we held hands and went together. She and the kids stood by me and believed in me without fail through it all. They never doubted that we’d be back and that I’d be there for them.
That lesson was enforced to an even deeper level when we traveled to Ethiopia. Mia is from one of the poorest areas of one of the poorest countries in the world. Yet, everywhere we went in Ethiopia, the people were happy – no, they were more than happy, they were joyous. I realized more than ever before that the “things” of this world add nothing to our joy. We believe that they do, even if we say we don’t, and we are believing a lie. They can bring happiness, but there is a difference between happiness, which is temporary and depends on circumstances and joy, which does not.
As I said in my first blog, I have come out of this 17 month lesson humbled, eager and appreciative. We are ready to start from zero and earn your support. We are ready to make you laugh, to make you think, to speak to your heart, and to hopefully be invited into your homes, cars and workplaces to try to make a difference in your lives.
I am also appreciative that the people on our show made the sacrifices they did so that we could all stay together. I love my work family and I will never walk through that studio door in the morning without gratitude again.
Like I said during Jerry’s update. Our ability to be blessed is inversely proportional to the tightness of our grip on the things of this world. I am blessed beyond description by six kids with beautiful hearts (my biggest prayer) and by a wife who enjoyed as much as I did our “Practice retirement.” I look forward to the day when she’s my full time job!
So, please allow the Detrows to share our biggest journey of the last 17 months: our journey to Mia…
Click here to read Mia’s Story for our junior listeners…
Kim
January 31, 2011 7:48 AM
Amazing! Moving! I am crying now with joy and happiness for you and your family. God Bless!
Susan
January 31, 2011 7:50 AM
What a beautiful family! Congratulations and God Bless. Thank you for just being you and giving all of us inspiration. Welcome back, I miss all of you
Jessica
January 31, 2011 7:52 AM
Thanks you for sharing….I am in tears…and yes have to re-do my make up!
Mia is a precious little girl and is lucky to have a new forever family!
I am looking forward to hearing about Mia growing up!
Stephanie
January 31, 2011 7:54 AM
God Bless Mia! She is blessed that you found her….
Marci
January 31, 2011 7:55 AM
WOW…I want to view the video, but there doesn’t appear to be a link.
toni
January 31, 2011 7:56 AM
thank you for sharing your JOY with me! It reminded me of all the JOY i have in my life
Karen Penna
January 31, 2011 7:56 AM
WOW! An amazing story…Poor Laura can’t even do the traffic! I hear the tears in her voice!
Sue
January 31, 2011 7:56 AM
Wow. Just wow.
Debbie
January 31, 2011 7:57 AM
I am moved beyond words. Your faith and love is expressed in an inspiring way. I have been a supporter of Hope after reading Mary Beth Chapman’s book, See, and I love their work. I hope many see your testimony and are moved to also adopt. Thank you for sharing your trust in the Lord and the blessings he provides.
cathy garner
January 31, 2011 7:57 AM
OM Goodness, tears just falling down my cheek. Ty Ty for shearing your Beautiful story, how wonderful your family looks all together. Thank You.
Beatriz
January 31, 2011 7:58 AM
Beautiful story! Could you tell me the name of the song on your you tube video about your daughter? It sounds like Steven Curtis Chapman. thank you.
Jeff
January 31, 2011 10:25 PM
It’s “When Love Takes You In” by Steven Curtis Chapman. They have it on Itunes. Thank you for asking! – Jeff
Jo Adamcik
January 31, 2011 7:58 AM
Jeff: I’m so touched and so glad that Mia has found her way into your lives. It is a blessing for all of you. You’re making such a difference in one little girl’s life! Loved your story this morning. I’m so glad you’re all back together. I have truly missed all of you starting off my mornings in such a wonderful way! Jo
Rosann
January 31, 2011 7:58 AM
Mia is a beautiful addition – however you should have a warning label before watching the video.
Warning…..kleenex is recommended at viewing. Wasn’t expecting the video to touch my heart the way it did.
Airhugs and have a wonderful day!
Kathi
January 31, 2011 7:59 AM
Jeff …………………………………… OMGoodness gracious ………….First of all, thank you for sharing your story. I also would like to thank you, your wife and family for saving another child from a very uncertain future, to one that is filled with the kind of love that she so richly deserves.
Jeanie
January 31, 2011 7:59 AM
Oh great, now you’ve gone and ruined my makeup!
Cathy Rowe
January 31, 2011 8:00 AM
Thank you for you inspirational story Jeff. It gives hope to those who are in the middle of their low – that there is a light at the end of the tunnel You example of dependence on God and not yourself proves we don’t walk through this life alone. Jeremiah 29:11 You’re the San Diego version of Billy Graham! Love you guys. Thanks for sharing your stories of struggle that led to victory.
Liz Jardine
January 31, 2011 8:01 AM
You make me proud to be human- proud to be your friend!!!
Welcome back Jeff !! We’ve missed you soo much.
KELLY
January 31, 2011 8:01 AM
Jeff, Your catch up is great. Congratulations to your family. Welcome home Mia. hugs to you all.
Victoria Picard
January 31, 2011 8:02 AM
She is truly yours! What a beautiful story!
Allyson
January 31, 2011 8:02 AM
What a great story, Jeff! Congratulations on the addition to your family. Mia is absoutely beautiful!
Sandra Cunningham
January 31, 2011 8:03 AM
This was a beautifully done presentation. Enjoyed all the pictures. I remember when your last 3 children were born as I listened to you everyday! So happy that little Mia has found a wonderful home with you and Kristen. May God continue to richly bless your home!
Teri
January 31, 2011 8:03 AM
Beautiful, as my husband and I have been faced with our own journey (he had been unemployed since Nov. 2009) God used you to remind us what is truly important in life. May God Bless you and your family.
Kathy
January 31, 2011 8:03 AM
We never know what road God will send us down. We just have to be willing to go.
donna
January 31, 2011 8:04 AM
jeff, as i pulled up in my driveway after dropping my daughter off at school, i was listening to your story…i have listened to you guys for at least 15 years… i love you guys…well, as im sitting here in my driveway crying my eyes out with an overload of what must be joy….for you and your family….God has blessed you with his love and i am so very happy for you….i have listened to you guys through two divorces, and two children, domestic violence, and now i am listening to you back with my first husband, in a home i love, and a daughter who is happy as can be her family is back together….looks like we all have come full circle….
gail price
January 31, 2011 8:04 AM
Gosh Jeff…what an amazing adventure God sent you on !!!Please, never feel you are not extra-ordinary…because you are !!! Yes,, there were tears of joy and pride for you…the pictures are adorable…you do not need to earn our respect…you already have it and i am sure i speak for all your listeners too !!!You and your family and radio family already make a big difference in our lives…welcome back !!!
Kim R.
January 31, 2011 8:08 AM
WOW….I am speechless. A beautiful story and a beginning to a wonderful new chapter in the lives of the Detrow faimly. Congratulations and God Bless to you.
Susan
January 31, 2011 8:08 AM
In the promos for Mia…she has the best laugh EVER!!! You can’t help but smile and then laugh when she is laughing! I want to save her laugh so whenever I have a bad day…I can listen to it and my day will be turned around instantly!!!!! No wonder she fits into your family so well! She is your child…God just gave her to you in a different way!
Christine
January 31, 2011 8:10 AM
I’m drying my tears now after watching your wonderful video. It was a happy cry, though. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.
I’m just an average mom (from Akron, Ohio originally) who knows that when we serve an extraordinary God amazing things can and will happen. Blessings to your and your beautiful family!
joanne
January 31, 2011 8:11 AM
Bless all of you and It was a great story
Cheryl Joy
January 31, 2011 8:12 AM
That is the most beautiful story. I’m so done. Trying to keep it together as much as possible at my desk at work. Love you Jeff and now the new member Mia.
venetta lagios
January 31, 2011 8:12 AM
Your story is remarkable, you and your wife made a unselfish decision to help this little girl and take her into your home when times for you were tough. I can see there is a lot of love all around you. We need more people like you and your wife who are willing to share their love with others. I can see why you fell in love with her. she’s one lucky girl! Would you adopt me!
Keep up the good work. Her laugh makes me feel good when i am down. I am listening to the end of your show and tears are coming down my face with joy and happiness for you and your family. My God keep all of safe and happy.
Terri Lambert
January 31, 2011 8:15 AM
Jeff,
What a great story. How wonderful for Mia and your family.
That beautiful little girl, I love her laugh!
I want to say that your story is inspirational. My daughter’s GS troop (8438, 10-11 year olds) have taken a % of their troop funds to sponsor a girl in Kenya to attend high school. The girls sat through a presentation introducing them (through video) the girl they are sponsoring. When they saw the conditions the girl lives in, they were so excited to help her. I believe they also learned a lesson “it’s not about material things” that matter.
Many blessings to you and your’e family.
Cyndy
January 31, 2011 8:16 AM
You allways touch my heart eith the love you show to your family,friends and listners. So gald you and the reat of the gang are back in our lives. You alll make the drive to work enjoyable.
Liz
January 31, 2011 8:16 AM
As a Mom of an adopted older child who was 15 living in a park homeless due to drug use in his home (there need to be more of us) I loved your story and I’m sitting here crying think what a beautiful gift God has given you.
Sheryll
January 31, 2011 8:16 AM
These stories from you are why we love you all so much…its like our family has just been reunited. All of your journeys and experiences are so special…thank you for opening your lives to share the laughter and tears.
Cory
January 31, 2011 8:17 AM
THANK YOU Jeff and Kristen for bring a BEAUTIFUL light to international adoption. I met you Jeff when Mia was home for 3 weeks at McD’s in Carlsbad. I shared that my daughter was born from my heart too in Guatemala. You and Mia both looked at her picture.
I love that you have shown people that it is NOT about saving a child, it is ALL about creating your family with the child that is YOUR child!!!
HUGS to you and your family. You two are her REAL parents!!! So glad to have you as a part of our adoption family!!
Cory
January 31, 2011 8:31 AM
OK, just watched the video and SO SO SO many memories came flooding in!! WOW!! And thank you once again. You are so right, YOU did not pick your daughter..that was ALL done long before you ever knew!!!
HUGS!!! Mia is perfect!
julie
January 31, 2011 8:18 AM
what a touching story. i had to watch the video twice.
WELCOME Mia!
Jo
January 31, 2011 8:19 AM
Thank you soo much for sharing this. I was crying so hard and this is such a great thing you did for her and your family.
Melissa
January 31, 2011 8:19 AM
Jeff…wow… two of our four kiddos are adopted. My husband and I are passionate about it and are in the process of starting an orphan ministry at our church. Adoption is such a living picture of the gospel…what God has done for us. Mia is beautiful and your video is a wonderful testimony. Thank you for sharing it! (BTW- we’re friends of Tony Escobedo and I’m the one who you gave the opportunity to sing with Amy Grant on the showgram years ago!)
Linda
January 31, 2011 8:19 AM
OMG Jeff, You are so blessed and I am wiping my eyes but feeling the JOY in my heart that you feel. Wow! This is why we ALL stuck in there and waited for all of you to come back on air.
Mary Barlow
January 31, 2011 8:20 AM
What a beautiful story. God used you for his glory during the 17 months you were not on the air.
Welcome back! You guys are great! You are San Diego!
Risa Williams
January 31, 2011 8:21 AM
Amazing Video I cried through the whole thing. There needs to be more families like the Detrow family that make the world a better place for all.
Risa Williams
Toni
January 31, 2011 8:22 AM
What a touching inspirational story….what a blessing you’ve been given….she is a special gift….your family and your lives will forever be changed….God is good…..Jeremiah 29:11-13 for He knows the plans He has for us….
I was in tears the moment you began your story….and am still crying….so touching…..thank you so much for sharing your family with us—your radio family…..blessings
Annie
January 31, 2011 8:23 AM
Wow! Your whole famliy sure sounds like you all are complete and blessed! What beautiful children inside and out! Glad you are back on the radio. You and Kristen are angels.
cindy marsh
January 31, 2011 8:23 AM
I just have to say.. I didn’t know you before on the radio. I have to say this that I have really enjoyed listening to you all on the morning. Thanks for the all the stories and you have made me cry & laugh with all of them. I love my ride to work now with all of you…
Anita Hudson
January 31, 2011 8:23 AM
OMG!! OMG!! OMG!!! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, for sharing with all your heart and soul. I have not lived in Califonia for 16 years, but have listened to The Morning Show as often as I could on-line, now on-line and my iphone. For the past 17 months I have followed all of y’all on your garage show and facebook. My sister still lives in California and she always called me anytime she heard anything about y’all to keep me informed. I have started listening 01/24/2011 and feel like I am back home. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!
Donna
January 31, 2011 8:23 AM
WOW…what an inspiration to all of your listeners. I listened for many years as I was driving from Escondido to Oceanside. Now I don’t have a long drive…but I have you on my computer and I listen in between classes in the girls locker room, as I am a P.E. teacher! Thanks for sharing your lives with us.
Cher
January 31, 2011 8:24 AM
The pure joy in your voice overwhelmed me! Such a beautiful story, such an incredible family!!
Thank you KYXY for bringing Jeff & Jer back. I have been listening to KYXY since we lost Jeff & Jer, so hearing about the “whole team” coming back, was the BEST news!
God Bless all of you and thanks for sharing!!
Laura
January 31, 2011 8:24 AM
The Detrow’s are amazing. I have thought for years of adopting, but you all did it! This is a push we all need, to share our love. What a wonderful family you have. Welcome Mia!
Thank you Jeff.
Jeff
January 31, 2011 10:29 PM
Laura, If you ever have any questions or need information about adoption, or fostering – email me or Kristen. We would be happy to help as much as we can. We have loved both experiences. – Jeff
Dora Rivera
January 31, 2011 8:24 AM
Oh my….I can’t stop crying! This is so touching! I was hearing your story on the radio while taking my boyfriends kids to school and I thought oh how i can’t wait to get home to look on line and see all that I just heard. And I am very touched, such a beautiful family! Thank u so much for sharing your story!
betty
January 31, 2011 8:25 AM
Loved your story, what a blessing to you and your family, Mia is beautiful and love her laugh. God Bless you all.
Patricia
January 31, 2011 8:30 AM
You are a special man, Jeff. Always real and speaking your heart with all of us. I admire your willingness to “go for it”.. to make changes for love of life & family. Your courage is truly amazing. Thank you for being back with us! You have been truly missed!!
Jennifer
January 31, 2011 8:32 AM
“You clothed me, you fed me, you visited me…..when you do this for the least of your brothers, you do it for Me”…… Your hearts are bountiful. Thank you for sharing, have missed all of you so very much.
Dianne
January 31, 2011 8:36 AM
Your’s is such a beautiful story. You had me crying my eyes out on the freeway coming to work this morning & I had to immediately watch this video when I got here. Crying again! God has truly blessed you, your family & all of us with the sharing of your story. I am soooo glad you are back on the radio….you have been truly missed!!
Lyn
January 31, 2011 8:38 AM
JEFF, You NEVER cease to amaze me.. Love your heart/soul.. One great family lead by an amazing fella. Love you, always have, always will. God Bless. Lyn xoxo
Toni
January 31, 2011 8:39 AM
What a touching inspirational story….what a blessing you’ve been given….she is a special gift….your family and your lives will forever be changed….God is good…..Jeremiah 29:11-13 for He knows the plans He has for us….
I was in tears the moment you began your story….and am still crying….so touching…..thank you so much for sharing your family with us—your radio family…..blessings
Tom
January 31, 2011 8:40 AM
Continue to do His work and you will be continually blessed. Thank you for sharing your story. Congratulations!!!!
Holly
January 31, 2011 8:42 AM
These are the things we all missed so much…you always make us laugh but you also have a way of making us think about life and living it rightly. Thank you.
wendy austin
January 31, 2011 8:42 AM
After a dry spell…..I found your troup last Monday and you make me smile again…So many of us have learned the same lessons of “what is important in our lives,” that Jeff and Jer have shared with, The Listeners. You both are inspiering others to go after their dreams and support your core beliefs with the actions in your lives.I’m so proud of you both and the impact you are making by supporting animals rights and changing a little girl’s life with love. Great to have you ALL back!
Cameron Byrd
January 31, 2011 8:44 AM
Wow, I was crying the whole way. Jeff, I’m adopted, and I have to say, you said it exactly how it should be. “Why did we go to Ethiopia to adopt? Because that’s where God put our daughter.” Many adopted children believe that they were just one of any number of kids that their parents might have chosen – like picking out a goldfish from the tank at the pet store. Your perspective will comfort Mia when she considers the circumstances of her life as a young adult.
julian
January 31, 2011 8:47 AM
You are the bravest man i have ever known. But i now that you are that brave and strong because of your family. I thank God for puting you in this earth.
Have a beautiful live.
Cottage By The Sea
January 31, 2011 8:48 AM
Your story is heart lifting and unforgettable. I met you in SB where I also live with my family, about 3 years ago. My daughter was fostering and later adopted through “Angels” at the same time you had your baby from there. Maybe you would like to see their story, I wrote about it on my blog. We also have fostered and adopted but everybody is all but grown up now. One 16 yr. old left at home. The torch of love has passed to my daughter and her husband now who have a heart to do the same thing. Hope to see you around town sometime, we’re just over on Pacific. Congratulations on the vocation of raising the beautiful family God has given you! Blessings, Tia
Cottage By The Sea
January 31, 2011 8:50 AM
Sorry, it’s me Tia from above. To see “Some People Think Families Happen By Chance”, see my blog, “Cottage By The Sea” @ http://www.lorimckitia.blogspot.com
Cottage By The Sea
January 31, 2011 8:54 AM
Okay, so sorry — to early in the morning. By now you really want to see this post or you’ve completely given up. I got one letter out of place so the link didn’t work. Give it one more try, you’ll love it as it relates to your journey and beliefs too!
“Cottage By The Sea” address – http://www.lorimcktia.blogspot.com
Cottage By The Sea
January 31, 2011 8:56 AM
Tia again. Just shoot me. I’m not a morning person. HERE IS THE DIRECT LINK http://lorimcktia.blogspot.com/2009/10/there-are-those-who-think-families.html If you click on this it should take you right there.
Amber
January 31, 2011 9:03 AM
What a sweet story……… every child need a loving home and it starts one home at a time:) Welcome beautiful Mia:)
Kimberly Fox
January 31, 2011 9:05 AM
Jeff you have such a beautiful family! I wish continued blessings to be showered on you all and I am so glad you are back!
Cathy
January 31, 2011 9:06 AM
Beautiful. This brought tears to my eyes. God bless you and your family.
Jan Magdaleno
January 31, 2011 9:06 AM
Jeff…you really “get” life!! I admire how you put out there what is really important to this journey on our planet. Thanks for making me feel inferior, haha! Seriously, you and the others stories are so inspiring. Couldn’t be happier that San Diego has you back!!
Toni
January 31, 2011 9:13 AM
So glad to have you all back on the air!
Barbara
January 31, 2011 9:14 AM
Is it just me or is Jeff lookin pretty hot in that photo? Kristin is a lucky woman!
Jeff
January 31, 2011 10:31 PM
Thank you. It’s not just you. It’s “Photoshop!” – Jeff
Linda
January 31, 2011 9:15 AM
The love you have for your wife and family is so amazing. Brought tears to my eyes Monday morning! I hope one day I can find love like yours. You have a beautful family, your are truley blessed
Laura
January 31, 2011 9:18 AM
MIracles happen when we least expect them don’t they? As I listened this morning, I felt like time stopped and I physically “Felt” love in the car, like I feel it every time I see my little guy or hold my husbands hand. Congratulations to the Detrow Family and thank you for sharing your amazing heart. We, really, truelly, honestly missed you all!
Esther
January 31, 2011 9:18 AM
What a beautiful story. Crying tears of joy for your family. Welcome Mia!
Blake
January 31, 2011 9:20 AM
I got the joy of listening to you on the radio this morning telling her story, and cried! I just dropped my kids off at school, ran home and watched your video and looking at photos….and am crying again…but tears of joy for you and yours!! She’s absolutely beautiful and you are so blessed!
lea
January 31, 2011 9:21 AM
not big hearted-hudge hearted! love u and the rest of jef & jer
Theresa Stevens
January 31, 2011 9:24 AM
What makes this even more precious to me is the fact that you faced such uncertainty about a job. We all knew you all would be back, but 17 months is a long time to wait and with the unknown ahead, you still brought Mia into your home. Mia is such a lucky and blessed girl. Congratulations to the Detrow family and may God Bless you.
Shawn
January 31, 2011 9:33 AM
Wow. Your daughter will treaure her adoption story. You wrote it beautifully. Our kids love hearing about how they came to us. I tell them God always knows where each child beongs. We just have to wait for him to show us the path. Do people say to you that Mia is a very lucky little girl?? It’s so the opposite, right??
tometta
January 31, 2011 9:33 AM
so glad you’re all back —- now, I’ll once again set my clock and get up early to start my day. In my 80′s now — but still loving life.
Sunny
January 31, 2011 9:34 AM
Wow, Bring a tear to my eye. God Bless your family and Congatulations on your newest addition to the family.
Pamela
January 31, 2011 9:35 AM
I am not sure why this story, her little face, her joy-filled voice, the open arms of he Detrow family just grips my heart and brings tears up from deep, but it does. This is such an example of the Love that heals… I know your family has been blessed and thank you Jeff for sharing that blessing with us all…. I am soooooo glad you are back on air with us!!
American Justice
January 31, 2011 9:53 AM
Jeff, It is such a gift that you are one of the two leaders of your showgram! While it was great to hear of everyone’s “wise” investments on their time off and without minimizing those, you and Jer having always been wise and once again provided the greatest return on the investment of your time off! I pray that you continue to lead those around you to more “wise” choices so they, too, eventually will be able to understand where you are and where you have been without their being so surprised and “new” to the feeling of giving unselfishly, discovering what so many of us has known for so long about life and how the Lord God is TRULY in control of our lives. We have always admired how you delve into the core of things as opposed to merely setting on the sidelines as a cheerleader or providing “token” involvement (i.e., being a speaker at events, helping “just enough” or committing yourself, just to flake on a situation) like SOOO many other pseudo-celebs/supporters do. They involve themselves simply for the recognition-not people, not with purpose and certainly not for our Savior, Jesus Christ. I am so proud to share our great city with a Christian king, a man of the Lord, and one who lives as He created you to be! Please continue to lead that gang of yours. It sounds as if Laura, Tommy and Randy are finally listening–it’s never too late:)!:) Well done Jeff, well done!!!
Wendy Lee
January 31, 2011 9:54 AM
What a beautiful story and a beautiful little girl!!! Thank you for sharing. It is wonderful to see a special little person find that special place where she belongs. Have a great day!
Michelle
January 31, 2011 9:56 AM
Mia is absolutely beautiful! Just amazing! God bless you and your family. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story. Glad to have you guys back on the radio
Sandra
January 31, 2011 9:58 AM
This was the most beautiful way to wake up we need more of
your love in the world Thank You
Stephanie Martinez
January 31, 2011 10:09 AM
Wow I am sitting here crying as I watched the video I cried in the morning when I heard on the radio and now as I watch the actual video I sit here crying again!!!! I love you guys my dad and I have listened to you guys for years. That is something him and I share and we were so bummed for the 17 months you guys were gone! But now I can call my dad in the morning again and say ” Dad did you listen to Jeff”s story this morning and thats just something special we can have between us and thats all because of you guys!!!
Judith
January 31, 2011 10:11 AM
I had tears in my eyes this morning hearing your story of Mia. I remember when Mark was on the way and your wife called you from the doctors office, such joy that made me cry too. Your family has such love. Laura is so beautiful, you better keep your eye on her. Mark is a cutie too. Elizibeth and Mia are such beauiiful girls. Wonderful family.
Chris
January 31, 2011 10:13 AM
Absolutely incredible.
You are blessed with an incredible gift and have blessed many with it.
LINDA
January 31, 2011 10:24 AM
WHAT AN AMAZING STORY. NOT ONLY DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL FAMILY AND NOW A WONDERFUL NEW CHILD BUT WHAT AN EXAMPLE YOU ARE TO YOUR CHILDREN AND THE WORLD OF WHAT GOD’S LOVE IS. YOU HAVE SHOWN WHAT GOD’S LOVE CAN DO IN THE HEARTS OF EACH OF US. WE MAY BE IMPERFECT IN OUR HUMANITY BUT GOD’S LOVE DOES MIRACLES INSPITE OF US. THANK YOU FOR BEING A VESSEL.
Jo Ann
January 31, 2011 10:33 AM
5.5 million Ethiopian orphans minus 3 – your Mia and my 2 new grandchildren Simon & Kate. Their adoption will be final on Feb. 7th. My son Jeff and his wife Jackie are becoming parents for the first time. We can’t wait for them to pick up Simon & Kate and bring them home to us.
Lucy
January 31, 2011 10:40 AM
Thank you for sharing Jeff! Your story is truly inspirational. May the Lord continue to bless you and your sweet family.
Nora
January 31, 2011 10:43 AM
Thank you for sharing your story and I’m so glad you are all back on the air. Many blessings to you and your family and Mia is a very blessed and loved child.
carol king
January 31, 2011 10:49 AM
So very, very beautiful. It made my not so great day GREAT!
)) I hope this inspires more to do what you did.
vicki shoemaker
January 31, 2011 11:17 AM
that is so awesome – you and your family are very special and to bring this little girl from across the globe into your home make you even more special and blessed. God is a very big part of your life and you reap what you sow – you are truly blessed and you give so much and you will get so much in return – this little girl could become someone very special to us all one day – just watch
Sher Prince
January 31, 2011 11:31 AM
Ok – Jeff, you have always had a special place in my heart, but that just deepened this morning. I pray God’s riches blessings on you, Kristen and your children, grandchildren and beyond! Thank you for allowing yourself to be used by God to spread His message of love. Mia is so precious – and how blessed she is to be in your family. But then isn’t that justlike our God? His ways are perfect, and His plans for us go far beyond what we could ever imagine, dream or hope for. God Bless you all.
Kathy
January 31, 2011 11:42 AM
Our family is so glad that the Showgram Family is back. It seems that God has worked in everyone of you lives. God Bless and Mia is a beautiful child.
Jessica
January 31, 2011 12:02 PM
Jeff, You are great. My god keep blessing yu and yur family.
Lorie Hart
January 31, 2011 12:24 PM
What an inspiration! How did we all survive 17 months without you. How does it feel to have so-o-o-o many people who love all of you!
Sylvia
January 31, 2011 12:40 PM
Thank you for sharing your family with us. God bless you all and welcome back!!
Cindy
January 31, 2011 12:44 PM
Mia is so cute! And I love it that you include Leroy in all your family pictures!
diane
January 31, 2011 1:08 PM
God is GREAT! How wonderful that he gave you another child to love and guide through life. Enjoy the journey.
Paula
January 31, 2011 1:28 PM
So, so awesome. God is good.
Judy
January 31, 2011 1:42 PM
Thanks for the cry on the way to work
Thank you all for sharing your stories of gratitude for your time away from work. Although I am sure it was a difficult time, you all took it as a “reason” maybe even a blessing. If more people looked at their daily lives, the event that happen, the blessings they are given….we could live in a better world.
Congratulations Jeff, what an incredible journey! as you know, you have been given a gift of life through Mia. Everything happens for a reason. This time off, as difficult as it was, your family found the strength together to share it with someone who needed you. Not your money, but all of you and the love that your family has to give to her!
Thank you for sharing – and may God continue to bless your lives!
Angel
January 31, 2011 3:07 PM
Just when you think you have such a beautiful family, the beauty just keeps coming!
Jill Hammons
January 31, 2011 3:14 PM
So, I have had a cold. For a long time it seems. I was thrilled that finally THIS MORNING I could breathe….no coughing, no drippy eyes, no full nose! YAHOOOO! That is until I heard Jeff’s endearing, heart-tugging message about Mia. Then it started all over again……eyes full, nose even fuller. But what a lovely feeling it was. BLESS the darlinggggggggggggg Detrow family…….all of you.
Katy Detrow
January 31, 2011 3:25 PM
Nice work Dad! Love you!
Jeff
January 31, 2011 10:34 PM
Hey everybody, it’s MY Katy posting! I always tell her she is the best daughter, best mother, best teacher, best friend. Love you Katy. So, so, so, so much.
Nancy DeMars
February 1, 2011 12:33 AM
I think Katy is the one my dog Jaiden licked on the computer screen while watching Mia’s video (I uploaded the video on Facebook). : ) : ) Prayers and blessings to the Detrow family.
Mary
January 31, 2011 3:54 PM
There’s a special place in heaven for families like yours……
Sarah
January 31, 2011 4:16 PM
Thank you for sharing such an intimate look into your lives with us. Your children – all of them are beautiful. Welcome Home Mia!
Sarah
January 31, 2011 4:40 PM
Thank you Jeff for sharing. The love your heart has to give is endless and we are blessed that you share that with us every day. You were never far from our hearts for these past 17 months because your love filled them to overflowing to last until your return. Glad to have you back in our home.
Ginger Southwood
January 31, 2011 4:48 PM
I am sobbing right now after watching your video. They are all tears of joy. Adoption is the best thing that ever happened to our family too. My husband and I tried for 6 years to have a baby. Lots of fertility treatments and heartache each month. The last day at the doctors office. The women that worked their told me have you ever thought about adoption. We signed up for classes, had a home study and childproofed our house ready to adopt a baby form the US. But God works in mysterious ways. My cousin called me to say that his old girlfriend had her own adoption agency. We called she sent us a fax picture from Russia. I took one look at that picture and I told my husband that that is our son. We were on a plane not even a month later to meet him. The reason I share this with you is that it doesn’t matter how you become a family. It just matters that you love eachother with all your heart. Tyler is the greatest gift. He is kind, sweet, smart, happy, funny. I wouldn’t trade a minute of all the things we had to go through for him to get here. My husband and I appreciate him and love him so much. People used to say he is so lucky to be here with you and we would always say no we are the ones who are lucky. So Congratulations on adding Mia to you family. Thanks for listening. Welcome to the wonderful world of adoptive families. :0)
Susan
January 31, 2011 5:23 PM
I can’t tell you how much I missed you, Jeff, especially your stories. You did us proud today with this one. May you always be as happy and blessed as you are today. What a great family!
David
January 31, 2011 5:25 PM
Jeff the new tattoo idea is not a good idea, you should never have names tattooed on yourself? instead I suggest you have portrait of your children instead, but you made a good choice going to Avalon2 Terry Ribera does my work and Alessio was a good choice, But please no names kids ok but no wife`s, exwifes or girlfriends.
Ana
January 31, 2011 5:31 PM
That was beautiful!
Alicia
January 31, 2011 5:37 PM
Oh Jeff, what a beautiful story of love. I heard it this morning but had to listnen (and see it) all over again… thank you for the tears….
Tracey Hanson
January 31, 2011 5:37 PM
Soo Beaautiful!! Jeff and Kristen your hearts must be full!
suzie
January 31, 2011 6:10 PM
Congratulations to Jeff and your family. What an amazing journey. Mia is a beautiful addition to your family. Thanks for sharing this with all of your 11 listeners!!!
Olga Pettitt
January 31, 2011 6:14 PM
Jeff and Kristen, God bless your hearts!
Julie Finlay
January 31, 2011 7:12 PM
I was tearing up as I drove my kids to school this morning… my daughter (Juliet) said “Mommy why are you crying?” I told her they were happy tears. Now, I watched the video and tears are streaming. Lovely, good tears! I needed a good cry. Thank you and so happy you all are back!
Diane
January 31, 2011 6:16 PM
You are BLESSED!!!!
Michael Johnson
January 31, 2011 6:19 PM
Thank You. I’am thank God that you are back. You are right, sometimes God puts us thru trials to draw closer to him and at the same time strengthens us in our faith.
You stories brought tears to my eyes and to my soul. They were tears of of joy and sorrow. May God continue to use all of
you in your ministry through radio.
Laurie Gillogly
January 31, 2011 6:55 PM
Wow! That was beautiful! Mia is such a lucky girl to have such a great family to love her. God is truly amazing in how He works. Thank you for sharing your story. I hope more orphans are adopted as a result of your video…..it makes me want to go adopt someone!
Bob Bennett
January 31, 2011 7:05 PM
Bravo he said as he wiped away the tears!!! All I can say is AWESOME. What you are doing for this Fantastic young lady is all of GOD.
Nancy
January 31, 2011 7:12 PM
thank you so much for sharing this beautiful video of your family! Welcome back to all of you! You were missed.
Bobby
January 31, 2011 7:16 PM
What can I say but wow… God is using you in a big way bro! Big Hugs to the family
Pasto Bobby
Jill
January 31, 2011 7:25 PM
What a wonderful story and what a beautiful family! Thanks so much for sharing your journey.
Donna
January 31, 2011 7:37 PM
Tissue, please…..She’s absolutely adorable! Beautiful family!
Tiffany
January 31, 2011 7:37 PM
I saw you, Kristen, your mother-in-law, and beautiful Mia shortly after you returned in Kohl’s, when I was with my daughter who was adopted from China. Your joy was radiant and watching your video of your trip reminded me so much of our trip. Congratulations – You are a blessed family!
Gloria
January 31, 2011 7:38 PM
Jeff you are blessed. Congratulations on your newest family member Mia. She also is very blessed, to be apart of your wonderful family. I should have know better than to start putting on my makeup when you started telling your story….. God Bless..
Laura Gulihur
January 31, 2011 7:46 PM
I must saY. thank you for your story. I too have a chosen one in my family. She was adopted one year before I was born. I am 37 years old, and thank god everyday for my sister. Family is not formed by blood, or genetics, it is formed by love. Congratulations on your beautiful family!
Marie King
January 31, 2011 8:07 PM
i have no words to express how wonderful it felt to hear this story this morning….what a miracle for this child to be picked by such a wonderful family as your Jeff. You are blessed to have a wonderful wife and children who love so unselfishly……….I fell like I am floating, I feel peace in my heart. Thank you for being you
tia
January 31, 2011 8:25 PM
I am reminded of my own adoption story which was far from the “ordinary”. People would ask how it came to be and I would reply “It was our destiny for it to be this way”, and thus little baby Destiny was born. Little Mia is breathtaking and I could seriously listen to her laugh all day. What a joy! Congratulations!!! I love how you said that she came with the Detrow software already installed. That is just so awesome.
Donis
January 31, 2011 8:35 PM
A beautiful story…..and a beautiful family.
Adrienne
January 31, 2011 8:44 PM
How can you not fall in love with her?! She is SO amazing and I consider you and Kristen the lucky ones in this scenario. I wish you and your bigger family all the health and joy in this world!!! God bless you all.
Genie
January 31, 2011 8:53 PM
Oh, what a wonderful blessing for you and Mia. May GOD continue to pour HIS grace on the Detrow Family!
Kristine
January 31, 2011 9:00 PM
So beautiful~Jeff you did a great job on the video, Mia is just the sweetest! LOVED being a part of your radio family
Beth
January 31, 2011 10:02 PM
Jeff,
My name is Beth. I’m 52 years old and the oldest of 10 children. My parents had 5 natural children and then decided to adopt. When my first adopted brother came home, it was quite a shock to a highschooler, who wanted to fit in. I fought it, became angry because I was different, and then he became my brother. In two years, my sister came, and then another and another and another, and we all became one huge family. We are all a mixing pot of white, French, Black, Russian, Asian, Indian- you name it we’ve got it – and we are all a FAMILY. All but 2 of my siblings live in San Diego. There’s no place like home. Adjusting to adoption was hard for me when I was just a young teenager, but I found out that it doesn’t matter where you come from, what color you are or how you got here. You are my family! I can’t imagine my life without my 9 brothers and sisters. We are a family – fights and all – but we ARE A FAMILY! Congratulations on your new addition – your new daughter! p.s. – My mother is a saint!!!
Erica L. Burrell
January 31, 2011 10:12 PM
What a pure love, what a joy and God bless you Jeff. I cannot stop smiling and crying at the same time. It’s amazing how ones’ heart can open just by hearing her infectious laugh. I am truly in awe of the goodness of the human spirit. You’re truly a kindred spirit and soul, you and Kristen. May God shine upon your story for the whole world to hear. Love you guys
Tina
January 31, 2011 11:40 PM
Jeff, what an inspiration! True love at its best!
Ellen McGuire
February 1, 2011 3:08 AM
Jeff,what an amazing story of love! Mia is adorable…I loved her little “commercial” for her story you played last week…especially the part where she said “now I know BIG english”. So sweet! Also,glad everyone else is doing so well.You were truely missed during your 17mo.”retirement”we’re so glad you’re back & we’re back,too. You probably don’t remember us,but my husband & I talked to you at the (Sgt.Pepper) Thank you party & we were retiring to Phoenix…we’re back & listening!
Love from one of the original 11 listeners,
Ellen
Michelle K
February 1, 2011 8:57 AM
I am trying to find my way to God, I know he is there, but to put my all myself there is hard, but listening to you and watching this beautiful video, I am in awe with the feeling of your love and trust of God. What a beautiful family.
Joel
February 1, 2011 1:59 PM
Jeff, I have followed you and your show since you first came to San Diego. I have stiil followed your show and “time off” even since my family and I have since moved to Cheyenne, WY in 2004. I have looked to you for Christian inspiration throughout the years and was even in the human flag during desert storm. I now have a beautiful wife, four living children and four in Heaven. Your story of family, life and now adoption does not surprise me at all. You and your family, through the Holy Spirit , have truly been an inspiration to humankind through laughter, compassion, and most of all Christian(agape) love. God’s blessings to you and your family and I am truly blessed to be able to know you through the radio waves all these years. Now you know me.
Sincerely, In Christ, The Johnson’s (Joel, Christiane, Joshua, Annalise, Kiera, and Baby)
Kim Cobb
February 1, 2011 10:49 PM
Hi Jeff, have been listening to you guys since the other,other, other, other station. How many others are there? Let’s put it this way–since the early 90s. I am truly glad you guys are back, the mornings honestly were not the same without you all. I am also so glad that you came back TOGETHER! I was hoping you would. Your kids sure have grown, and your new addition is beautifu! I’ve always admired your expressions of faith on the air–thank you! WELCOME BACK, GANG!
Andree
February 2, 2011 2:23 AM
WELCOME BACK, JEFF!! and WELCOME HOME, Mia!!! Truly a remarkable and moving story. Thank you for sharing and thank you for loving enough to change a little girl’s life. GOD BLESS YOU!
Laura Corn
February 2, 2011 10:29 AM
I can’t write because I’m crying and moved so deeply there are no words.
Debbi Owen
February 2, 2011 4:16 PM
Are you kiddin’ me? I’m trying to type between my tears, so please forgive any typos. What a beautiful, wonderful, genuine and loving story. But it is not a story, is it? It is real life experienced by extremely caring, generous and thoughtful people (You, Kristen, Mark, Laura, Elizabeth and even Leroy Brown).
God bless you all. You are an inspiration and I love you!!!
By the way, I have been a listener for the past, idonknow, since before Elizabeth and Charlie were born. This is my first communication with you and I hope will not be my last.
ALL of you are exceptional people. Thank you!
Cecilia
February 2, 2011 4:59 PM
What an amazing adventure of the heart. I am so touched and thankful for the opportunity to share even a glimpse of this experience with you and your family. How very Blessed you all are. Hi and welcome to Mia, she is absolutely joyously adorable!! Have fun! <3
chris cantore
February 2, 2011 10:59 PM
yo, jeff.
unemployed for much, much longer than 17 months, i understand your pain, and have learned similar lessons (to profound levels).
glad the time-off has shaped a NEW man with NEW ink — love avalon2 !!
wishing you and your family the absolute best …
aloha, an old friend with a bowling mic.
Danica Walter
February 3, 2011 3:07 PM
Amazing!!! God does work in amazing ways! Congrats on your beautiful daughter!
Renee Calsmer
February 4, 2011 7:42 PM
.What an awesome story. Congratulations to you and your family. God sent you the best gift of all. I’m glad it is OK for people to cry because I am crying so hard I can”t see. Give Mia a big hug and kiss for me and tell her welcome.
Cindy
February 4, 2011 8:37 PM
What a wonderful blessing to your entire family!!! I heard little Mia talking on the first day you were back on the radio and could tell she was from Ethiopia by her accent. As an adoptive mom, I celebrate with you. And you’re right; it doesn’t matter how they come to you-they’re yours. Thanks for sharing your family’s story.
Sherri
February 6, 2011 11:29 AM
Wow… God is amazing. Trust in Him and all will be as He planned it to be. Congratulations for sharing your beautiful story with everybody, even those that still followed you when they moved out of CA to another state. God Bless your family
kate
February 6, 2011 11:11 PM
you guys are awesome! what a blessed little girl! we said the same thing on our adoption video – people asked us ‘why russia – because our son was there’ =) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4efiP2Bv10o
Sandy
February 9, 2011 2:18 PM
That is the most beautiful story…May the Lord Bless you and your family. Thanks for sharing your love with all of us…you help our hearts to grow.