I didn’t become a dad by birth —
I became one by choice 🤍.

At 41, my life was work boots and quiet nights 🥾🌙.
Then one phone call changed everything.

Elijah was five.
Grace was eight.
They arrived with one worn backpack 🎒💔 — and a lifetime of uncertainty behind them.

Life didn’t get easier.
Days grew longer.
Extra shifts became normal.
But quitting never crossed my mind 💪.

I didn’t pray for an easy road.
I prayed for strength 🙏✨.

Years later, I watch them stand tall — both serving their community in uniform 👮‍♂️👮‍♀️🤍.
Not because they had to.
But because love taught them how.

No blood made us family.
Choice did.
Faith did.
Love did. ❤️