It wasn’t long at all before the kids became confident in their environment. They began to trust us and behave like they belonged in our home. I remember a distinct transition when Joshua began to leap into my arms from the couch or his bed. He was wary at first but after a number of months he began to trust that I would catch him. Today, Joshua will happily leap from the top of his bunk bed knowing daddy will not let him fall. I love the complete trust that has developed and the confidence this has brought both kids.

At the end of 2017, we plan to begin the adoption process and make these two little treasures a part of the Banman family. This is more than a name change to us, it signals a new identity for each child within our family. When Terry and I began this journey we agreed to foster two kids in need for a time but we love Joshua and Grace as our own children today. We are excited to share our future, our resources and our family with these two amazing individuals. We look forward to celebrating their new identities as Joshua and Grace Banman.