This month we are so honored to share our adoption story in Parents Magazine. You can read the story online here. I was wiping away tears as I read it yesterday (even though, of course, I knew what it was going to say- it STILL got me). I love how the photos turned out, it was so cool to shoot in our home and the story is beautifully written.
I wanted to share “our why” with you today.
When we were first married we followed Ashley’s adoption story and each day as I shared the photos of their adoption trip (and beyond) with Jeremy our hearts were so filled with love and inspired. It was during that time that Jeremy first turned to me and said he felt like he would be open to a special needs adoption. Years later, we look back and see that moment as the beginning of our journey to adopting our daughter, soon to be daughters.
So when it came time to decide whether we’d share our story, it was always clear to me that it was worth it. Yes, there are downsides and risks to sharing your child’s life on the internet. But we feel strongly that the outcome of families hearts opening to adoption for the first time is worth it to us. For just one family to choose adoption I would have shared, but over the past year dozens of families have opened their hearts.
When I receive an email from a family or individual who has begun their adoption journey after following our story, it’s probably the most purpose I ever feel on this planet. It’s a beautiful thing. I hope that when Nova is older she will share that sense of purpose with us and feel proud her story changed so many lives.
If you’re a family who feels your heart opening- give it time and space and listen. Don’t let fears make your decisions for you. Adoption is the best choice we have ever made and we’re here to talk to you if you need us.
Here’s the cover, which should be on stands this week. Tag us on Instagram if you see it out and about!
Credits// Photographer: Priscilla Gragg, Parents Editor in Chief: Liz Vaccariello, Parents Creative Director: Agnethe Glatved, Fashion Stylist: Sarah Cobb, Hair and Makeup: Alicia Marie Campbell, Prop Stylist: Colson Horton.
Ps. I’ve decided to start sharing one post a week, every Friday. I like the idea of being really consistent and one a week is a little above the average I have been doing, so it’s a good challenge for me too. I 100% consider this a creative outlet for myself and it’s a motivator to capture more family photos and videos, which means a lot to me. See you next Friday!
Oh and in the meantime…. I have been working on adding items to my Amazon shop (the kids clothes and toys are the sections I have really filled up so far!). So I hope that’s helpful too.
