I ADOPTED A 4-YEAR-OLD BOY—

After years of longing for a child, I adopted Joey, a boy who needed a home as much as I needed him. For his first birthday, I planned a special day with balloons and pancakes, but his smile faded when he opened his gift. He revealed his real birthday was yesterday—his brother Nathan’s was today. Joey showed me a drawing of them together, revealing Nathan, his separated brother. Devastated, I contacted the agency, learning Nathan was in

foster care nearby. We arranged a visit, and their tearful reunion at a playground confirmed my resolve. Despite legal hurdles, I pursued fostering Nathan. Months later, both boys were officially my sons. At a backyard celebration with a chocolate-vanilla cake, I realized love’s surprises—like reuniting brothers—bring the greatest joy. Digging deeper into Joey’s sadness led to our family.