Jeff and Lindsay say they always figured that adoption would be part of their family story, but they started this journey as foster parents. While working toward their foster license, Lindsay found out that she was pregnant with their son, Franklin. After becoming parents, their desire to foster and adopt seemed to grow stronger. They love Franklin deeply – and were even more aware of how many children don’t enter the world into a loving and safe family like he did. As Franklin got older, Jeff and Lindsay turned back to completing their foster license, so that they could be that safe space for another child.
They first met Lincoln as a foster placement, and Lindsay admits, “the first few months were up and down, as we all learned how to live and play with each other.” But they managed – some days the family was thriving, and others, well, not so much. But that’s true of any family! They remained committed and dedicated through the tough times, and when it became clear that Lincoln was going to need a permanent family, Jeff and Lindsay didn’t think twice. Lincoln’s adoption was finalized in May 2025, with much celebration.
Having navigated the court system and adoption process, the family decided to take a long summer vacation – a true family adventure! They traveled all over the country, visiting friends and family and introducing Lincoln to everyone. Aside from just being a whole lot of fun, their summer adventures led to lots of opportunities to bond and create new memories together. There’s no doubt, say Jeff and Lindsay, that their summer of travel “truly brought all of us closer and allowed all of us to see each other in settings other than school and home.”
Throughout this process, Lindsay and Jeff say that one of the most important things they learned (and have to remind themselves even now) is that their son experienced trauma for years before he met them and became a part of their family. He’s been through things that their biological son has never experienced. He’s been through things that they as parents will never fully understand. Because they’ve developed such a tight bond as a family, it’s sometimes easy to forget that they haven’t always known him – but since he didn’t come into a safe and loving world, it will take time for him to process and move through that trauma.
The family credits their support system of friends, family, and service providers with helping them through their adoption journey. Although they had parenting experience with Franklin, they learned that there were lots of times when they would need to learn on their “villagers” for advice, regular breaks, and cheerleading. Often, it’s as helpful for families to know someone’s “in their corner” as it is to have someone who can answer questions and guide you through the process.
Their experience leads Jeff and Lindsay to offer this advice to other families in the process of adopting: “Keep the child’s experiences in mind when things get tough. It’s humbling to remember the things they have been through and it can help their behaviors make more sense.” They also encourage prospective families to use all the resources available to them: books, podcasts, webinars, support groups, and so on. “These connect you with others who can listen to you and maybe give advice. And you may even make some friends!”