The journey to adoption can be challenging, often filled with emotional highs and lows that test the strength of family bonds. For new mom Sara Mitchell, the path to adopting her daughter, Lily, was no exception. On March 7th, after a year of fostering, Sara finally made it official, and she wanted to commemorate the occasion with a special photoshoot that included everyone who played a role in their journey.
Sara, a photographer based in Wilmington, North Carolina, collaborated with her close friend, who is also a photographer, to capture the day. During the adoption ceremony, they took turns snapping photos of the various people who had supported them along the way. “I wanted to be present, so I didn’t take many pictures myself,” Sara shared. The resulting images featured the judge, the social worker, family members, and friends, all celebrating this pivotal moment in their lives. Sara shared these joyful moments on Facebook, expressing gratitude for her supportive “village.”
She reflected on the significance of the day, writing, “This was a monumental day for Lily and me, but it was also about everyone who has been there for us. It truly does take a village.” Sara emphasized how her family and friends stood by her through the trials of fostering, even though they hadn’t signed up for that journey.
The adoption process had its challenges, but Sara felt lucky to have had Lily in her life for over a year before the formal adoption. After the ceremony, she captured images of each person involved, showcasing their contributions. There’s the judge, beaming with joy, holding a sign that reads, “Today I witnessed a happy ending.” The attorney’s sign proclaimed, “Signed, sealed, delivered, she’s yours,” while the social worker and friends held up their own heartfelt messages.
Sara’s aunts traveled many miles to support her, holding a sign that stated, “Family is more than biology.” Even the little cousins, who play a significant role in Lily’s life, held a sign that humorously said, “We’re still outnumbered,” reflecting the joy of welcoming another girl into the family.
While the focus of the day was undoubtedly on Lily, Sara made it clear that acknowledging the people who helped them was equally important. “In life’s big moments, we often forget to thank those who help us,” she remarked in an interview. “Fostering has its challenges, but my support system has been unwavering.”
Initially, Sara hadn’t envisioned herself as a foster parent. However, after losing a close friend to cancer, she had a realization: “Why wait for life to happen? If I want to be a mom, I should take action.” She decided that if she wasn’t married by 35 and didn’t have children, she would pursue motherhood on her own terms. Ironically, she officially became a mom just a week before her 36th birthday, a sign she interprets as divine timing.
Sara took great care in choosing a name for her daughter, one that would resonate with their shared journey. Although it was a difficult decision to change Lily’s birth name, it felt right for both of them. “She flew into my heart and made a permanent nest there,” Sara described affectionately.
Since sharing their story, Sara’s adoption photos have gone viral, resonating with many others. She received heartfelt messages from fellow adoptive parents as well as individuals who were adopted themselves. “It’s touching to see how healing this can be,” she said.
Sara hopes her story inspires others to consider fostering. “It’s a tough road, but the love you receive in return is immeasurable,” she stated, emphasizing the positive impact on both the children and their families.
In summary, Sara’s adoption photoshoot not only celebrated the formation of her family but also highlighted the importance of community support in the adoption journey. Her heartfelt reflections and the joy of finally becoming a mother resonate with anyone who has navigated similar paths to parenthood.