You Say Goodbye

When I lived in Germany, like my German family I answered the phone by giving my phone number. While living on this side of the pond before joining the Air Force, my parents had us answer the phone as many adults of that era did with, 'This is the Kennys.' 

Just about universally, we answer a ringing phone with 'Hello,' and give it no thought at all (I may only be speaking for myself here). Until now.  

Thanks, Ellen.

As for the farewell part, I think adieu is preferable to ahoy, but that is all I will say about that.
-bill kenny