517 Days.
That’s how long I’ve waited for this moment.
You’re no longer my foster daughter or my foster son, and our relationship is no longer ‘complicated’. Now, you are my daughter and my son, and I am your mom.
Our journey to this day hasn’t been an easy one. It’s been full of ups and downs, twists and turns, tears and prayers (lots of prayers). It’s been court dates, counseling appointments, and worker visits. The closer to this point we came, the harder it was for me to imagine my life without you.
This day means years of heartbreak finally coming to a close for your dad and me. I thought my journey to motherhood was going to be pregnancy tests before the sun came up, surprising my husband with the news, baby showers, and nesting. Instead, it was a call from our worker, a frantic trip to Target for supplies, and having you in my home an hour later.
Even though you didn’t arrive in the way I expected, you are still my greatest blessings.
Hannah, you’ve blossomed into a bright, loving, funny, and sassy little girl. I love taking our trips to Target together and getting hot chocolate with you at Starbucks! I love the way you take care of your brother and foster sister. You amaze me every day with clearer and clearer speech and by never letting your struggles hold you back. Your toothless grin can put a smile on my face no matter how stressful things get. You’re only 3 years old, but already, you have such compassion for others.
Leo, you’re my little man. From day one, you have been attached to me at the hip (quite literally for a while). You are my little comedian and never fail to do something to make us all belly laugh. I love how inquisitive you are and how patient you can be while figuring out new concepts. I love that you want to take everything apart so you can figure out how they work. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you because I know you will do great things!
517 days ago, when you were brought to my doorstep, I promised to show you both unending love no matter where this journey would lead us. I promised to pray for you, play with you, nurture you, and teach you even if it was just for a few days, weeks, or months. Now, my promises to you are for the rest of your lives. I promise that my arms will always be open to you, that I will share your story with you, that I will give you all the best things in life, and that I will love you forever and always.
Love,
Mom
