Motherhood is a miracle however it comes to you. The capacity of a mother’s love knows no limit and there’s always room in her heart.
Jennifer Bond is a very busy 40-something. By her own admission she forgets how old she is. After staying home for nearly 27 years and being an avid crafter and seamstress, she was ready to try anything creative. Today she is the owner of a shop downtown called Renewed Creations and an active mother of seven with her children ranging from ages 29 to 4.
Jennifer and her husband had the opportunity to adopt through foster care. “We had always said if God opened the door to adoption, we would,” said Bond. “We were blessed to adopt four kids through fostering.”
Through the years as foster parents, they have cared for 20 kids.
“It can be challenging but very rewarding. You can experience heartbreak and joy when they leave your home to start their next chapter of life,” said Bond. “I think one of the hardest parts of fostering, is not always knowing what happens after they leave your home. One of the most rewarding parts is seeing a parent succeed and staying in touch with them. They become part of your family too.”
Bond says motherhood is always a blessing that comes with its highs and lows.
“One of the many amazing things you witness is watching your adult kids as they establish their families and grow,” said Bond. “It’s just as amazing watching your little ones as they discover their surroundings and learn new skills.”
She also shared that just as amazing as those things are, they are also some of the hardest as well -- watching them leave, growing into their own person, and realizing they don’t need you as much.
Her hope for all her children is happiness, health and they find someone who they love with all their heart. She wants them to find joy in the little things.
Bond’s great-grandmother, Mazel Wallace, gave her a great piece of advice at her baby shower. She said “People will give you all kinds of well-meaning advice. Listen to it, decide what will work for you and then ignore the rest. You will find what works for you.” Bond’s advice for other mothers is the same.
“Once you love a child as your own they are yours. It doesn’t matter if the child is yours biologically, fostered or adopted,” said Bond.
If you have an interest in being a foster parent, Bond encourages you to contact the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services to learn more.
