Who has been impactful in your journey as a mother?

My own mother and mother-in-law are both social workers, which has been an invaluable resource as we went from zero to seven adopted children in three years. Both my parents and mother-in-law have great faith in Jesus Christ, which has also shaped my faith into who I am today. I share with my children two important things: 1. They are children of God. 2. Look and live (paying attention to their surroundings, and not avoiding good choices because they seem too easy or obvious).

What continues to inspire you in your motherhood journey?

The changes that I see in my kids inspire me. My children are adopted from the foster system. They have seen the good, bad, and ugly, of the world. Despite being born substance dependent, and being victims and witnesses of abuse, they have overcome those challenges and continue to strive to be better. Giving them a stable home with principles to guide their lives and make decisions has changed their behaviors. Seeing evidence of these changes is a testament that my efforts provide a meaningful foundation that will benefit my children throughout their lives.

How has being a mom shaped your life?

After being diagnosed with infertility in 2012, I struggled to find a purpose. Fostering and adopting my children has brought special meaning to my life. Raising my children has shown me that motherhood is the ultimate crowning glory of womanhood even when it comes through unconventional means. I wanted to be a mother and my children needed a mother; God brought us together, and the miracles we have experienced in our journey as a family have strengthened me and changed me for the better.

Share one of your favorite stories from motherhood.

A beautiful nine-month-old baby was placed into our home as our third foster child. Having faced the struggle of infertility, Emma, was a blessing of healing and comfort to me. We bonded instantly. Three months later, the state decided to remove her from our care and place her in another home with her siblings. Though we tried, we were powerless to stop it. With patience and faith in Christ, miraculously she, along with her siblings, was returned to us a few months later. The miracles we witnessed inspired me to write and share our story, Hindsight: A Story of Faith and Family.