"On Cecilia's last day as a mother...." No, Cecilia is forever a mother, signing away parental rights does not negate that. She is their first mother, you are their second mother; you are both "real" mothers. As someone who was adopted out of foster care, I encourage you to view her that way, and as the boys age, give them permission to do the same. And your connection to her did not end, you are forever connected by your roles in Dominic and David's lives.