Christmas as a foster parent is a reminder of the children I cherished but no longer see

Over the years, Lana Cullis’ family expanded and contracted with 23 foster children. Each year, unpacking ornaments meant facing the loss and grief for children and family members who were no longer present at her table. But this year, decorating the tree with her daughter shifted her perspective on those memories.

Christmas as a foster parent is a reminder of the children I cherished but no longer see
A smiling woman snaps a selfie as she poses next to an older smiling woman. They both stand next to a Christmas tree in a living room.

Over the years, Lana Cullis’ family expanded and contracted with 23 foster children. Each year, unpacking ornaments meant facing the loss and grief for children and family members who were no longer present at her table. But this year, decorating the tree with her daughter shifted her perspective on those memories.