We both grew up in Connecticut and are both teachers. Anthony teaches elementary school and Ashley teaches in a toddler program. We first met on New Year's Eve, going out with friends. Over time, our friends continued to get together for occasional dinners and sometimes line-dancing nights at a local restaurant. We started a connection over a shared passion for our work and fantasy books. In 2018 we had a spring wedding. Over the years we have grown together, embracing not just each other but blending our families and friends as well. We are truly partners for all the ups and downs of life's journey.

We knew when planning for our family to grow we would face female infertility and embark on a unique journey. We are in a place of being excited and ready to take this leap. We are ready to love, nurture, and support a child as we watch him or her grow.

The best words to describe Anthony are caring and patient. He has always loved and supported me unconditionally. He chose me despite knowing what lay ahead to start the family we both dream of. He has been my rock and makes me smile when he knows I want to cry. He shows me and all of his family nothing but caring and devotion.

He is his parents' only child and still lives where he was raised to be close to them. He makes an active effort to talk to them daily and see them regularly. They have a strong bond and he is committed to being present for them as they age.

He is an equally devoted friend and teacher. He has maintained the same friendships since childhood and they are as close as ever. He shows his students the same thoughtfulness and patients as his family and friends. He will be the most adoring father. I can not wait to see him thrive in that role.

~Ashley

Facts about Anthony

• passionate Knicks and Jets fan
• loves Star Wars
• favorite food is pizza with a crispy crust
• a couch potato on the weekends but enjoys throwing around a football and playing basketball.
• method of relaxation is video games and watching Netflix.

Ashley is very caring and has always been extremely supportive as a wife, daughter, sister, and aunt. Since the day I met her, her dream in life was to settle down and start a family. I know she will be an extremely loving and caring mother. This is evident by the way she treats her niece and nephews. She always jumps at the opportunity to spend time with them and be the best aunt she could be.

Ashley has been the best wife anyone could hope for. She is understanding and supportive. She is always willing to go the extra mile when I need her. She is also very patient and kind, even when I forget to empty the dishwasher. Ashley also has an extremely close relationship with her parents. She texts/talks with them on a daily basis. One of Ashley's joys in life is spending the holidays with family. Nothing in the world would bring her more joy than to be able to share these holidays with a son or daughter of her own.

~Anthony

Facts about Ashley

• huge Harry Potter fan
• loves to read
• her car is always tuned to country radio
• enjoys the holidays and decorating
• watches baking competitions on TV and makes tasty sweets
• has never seen a clothing store she didn't like

We live in a townhome in Connecticut that is part of a condo community developed in the 1950s. Our home has a warm and eclectic style and is our happy place. We have two bedrooms, a main living space, and a finished den in the basement. We are excited to have a baby grow up in this space. We look forward to the bedroom we have set up becoming a sweet and cozy space that will grow with the baby.

Chase: 10-year-old rescue kitten. He joined our family from a shelter when we got our first apartment together. He is now our quiet and pensive old man. Favorite things: begging for food, strings, and cardboard

Sadie: 5-year-old Boston Terrier. She journeyed to our home from a breeder in Missouri. She is playful, sweet, and a bit goofy. Favorite things: getting a piece of Anthony's food, cuddles, playing tug.

Our extended family is important to both of us and includes our parents, Ashley's sister, our niece, and two nephews, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. We see our parents regularly and try to be actively involved in the lives of our nephews and niece. Our favorite holidays are big celebrations with family for Christmas Eve and Thanksgiving. We also have fun every year celebrating Halloween and birthdays.

When we are not reading, baking, or playing video games at home, we enjoy summer days by the pool at Ashley's parents', trips to the beach, summer fairs, visiting a nearby aquarium, walks outdoors, and local outings with family and friends.

Thank you again for taking the time to look at our family profile. Whatever happens next, we wish you peace and confidence in your choices for yourself and the baby. We wish you and the baby the best future!