Waiting for something you want so much and not knowing when, how, or IF it will happen is one of the most difficult things. My guest on today’s episode shares her story of grief and desperation in waiting. And also the incredible miracles and hope on the other side of it. 

Today I talk with Ashleigh Mackey. Ashleigh is an Arizona adoptive mama of one. She married her high school sweetheart, Bobby, in 2010. Ashleigh’s story of adopting her daughter Charleigh is truly amazing.

Her husband’s childhood illness made the chances of conceiving a child very slim for them. But her desire to be a mother still weighed heavy on her heart. Through extreme ups and downs, Ashleigh leaned into God for comfort and guidance.

Ashleigh’s story is about adoption. But maybe not the kind you immediately think of.  Ashleigh’s story is about kinship adoption. This happens when children in foster care find permanent homes with relatives when they can’t return to live with their parents for some reason. 

We talk about

• The pain and desperation she experienced during uncertainty while waiting for a child
• How God met her at her lowest point
• The miraculous series of events that occurred for Charleigh to become her daughter
• The unique set of challenges and benefits that come with kinship care and adoption 

Ashleigh’s heart to be a mother, along with her inspiring faith in God, make this story of kinship adoption one you do NOT want to miss.

More about the guest:

Ashleigh is a part-time special needs caregiver and a full-time stay-at-home-mama. 

Her little family of three enjoy lots of travel, exploring the outdoors, and cultivating a strong community of friendship. The Mackey’s value building a home together steeped in love and a sense of belonging to all who enter. 

Over the years, Ashleigh has built a deep love for home & event decorating. Making “something out of nothing” is what she’s known for. But what really brings her joy is all things vintage!

Following the encouragement by her family & friends, she is currently in the beginning stages of building an online thrift shop called “Mother of Thrift”. Through this business, she intends to sell unique vintage finds that she collects on a weekly basis.  

Resources and links

ASHLEIGH’S INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/littlemissashleigh/

Ashleigh’s online thrift shop – MOTHER OF THRIFT INSTAGRAM:  https://www.instagram.com/motherofthrift/

More about the Gotcha Mama Podcast:

The Gotcha Mama Podcast is where we share honest stories of the joys and struggles of mom-life with young kids.

Each week host Amanda Bennett interviews a mom about topics ranging from awkwardly making mom friends, to chasing BIG dreams and finding purpose, to managing crippling anxiety and depression. You’ll hear stories from moms like you with the purpose to inspire, encourage, and entertain you.

We understand that motherhood can be lonely and make you doubt yourself. The Gotcha Mama Podcast exists to let you know that you are not alone as a busy mom of young kiddos, no matter what you’re dealing with.

The show is all about tearing down our insecurities as moms by honestly sharing our stories and a little of what we’ve learned along the way.

We believe it’s a whole lot better riding the rollercoaster of motherhood together!

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