Tim & Kevin Found Their Family

"Mom, I've got a new birthday". Those were one of the first words out of Tim's mouth after a judge signed the final order for adoption making Tim and his brother Kevin the legal children of their new mom Arlene. After that, there was a lot of crying and celebrating.

Tim and Kevin were not only the first foster children that Arlene took into her home, but they were also the first children photographed for the Heart Gallery of Sarasota over three and a half years ago. The Heart Gallery promotes adoption of local children in foster care through many mediums, one of which is a traveling display of professional portraits. The photo of a much younger Tim and Kevin was taken off the Heart Gallery display last week and was given to Arlene in the court room to hang in her home as their first official family picture.

"This is a great day for us as well" says Jeremiah Guccione, President & Founder of the Heart Gallery of Sarasota. "I still remember the day I met Tim and Kevin. They were such happy, optimistic kids wearing tuxedos and smiling for the camera. Hopefully they will provide some inspiration to other children in foster care as well as to prospective parents that miracles do happen."

"This is encouraging for me to do this again one day" says Arlene. When asked if they would consider a girl next time, all three quickly said no. "We only do boys in this house". And as far as celebrating such a momentous day, everyone agreed that they were looking to do something low key after all the excitement of the last few days. "Probably a BBQ" says Arlene. "With Pineapple Upside Down Cake" added Tim. "And Apple Pie" said Kevin.

About Heart Gallery of Sarasota

The Heart Gallery of Sarasota is a non-profit organization that helps the children of Sarasota, Manatee, & DeSoto Counties find adoptive homes and recruits people to become foster and adoptive parents.