Sometimes, we already know what fate holds for us through our wishes and the traits we have. Similar was the case of Anna, as all the memories are still clear to her; she constantly desired to be called by the word ‘mom’ and become a teacher. Presently, she has been teaching for seventeen years and was able to start her journey as a foster parent in her sixteenth year. She always felt a pull when it was about foster care, probably because her father and her sister were once in care. Not just this, she finds a purpose behind fostering, as children mostly do not get the love and care they deserve.
She looked forward to becoming a foster mother or even adopting a child if motherhood was not in her fate. The licensing process began in February 2020. Although it was already a time-consuming process, while it was still going on, COVID-19 slowly crept into people’s lives and then took over the world, which delayed the process. The next few months were about filling in and completing the paperwork and all other requirements. Finally, after eight months of waiting, she was now licensed to become a foster parent.
Anna’s best friend was her strongest pillar of support, as she helped her prepare the room for the babies that would be welcomed into the house. Not just this, out of joy, she even planned an online foster shower. Anna was ready to start the journey and was excited about what the future holds for her! The first placement was quick, and it was a sweet little angel everyone called little Miss. The one-year-old baby girl was lovely and was a bundle of joy. Anna’s presence made her life brighter, and she felt happier. Not just this, her presence whenever Anna taught online was familiar, and she became a massive part of Anna’s little world.
Her parents did not visit her as often, so the thought that Anna might become her permanent home usually came to her mind. However, sixteen months after Little Miss lived with Anna, it was time to say goodbye. Although Anna prepared herself for several goodbyes while signing up to become a foster parent, she did not know how much it would shatter her. But, with the hope and wish for her to remember Anna, she eventually let her go and moved forward with her journey.
While Anna was missing little Miss, another placement was also received. It was a newborn baby in a challenging state of physical health, and so the visits to the hospital were continuing. After saying goodbye to Little Miss, this little man played a significant role in helping Anna stay happy and busy. No doubt, babies do have healing powers, and so the next twenty months were beautiful. Anna looks forward to adopting the baby, but is unsure, as the adoption has to be official and the process is lengthy.
When Anna received the news that the little man’s biological mother had given birth to another boy, and he, too, needed a home, it felt like the babies were made for him to keep! Although the baby was placed somewhere else for a few months, the case was later transferred. The thought of separating the siblings when they had an option to grow together was harsh, so Anna did not think much and said yes to keeping the little man’s brother, too.
The babies built a beautiful bond, and Anna juggles her professional and personal life while caring for two babies—it’s no small job. However, she is grateful for the journey and the four children she got to foster. Each one was equally lovable and left an imprint on her heart. Being a foster parent will forever remain one of the most cherishable parts of Anna’s life!
