Children were always part of the picture when we imagined what our family would look like. When we were dating, we talked about how we might go about it: make one, then adopt one.

Eventually, we realized that 'making' the first child wasn't in the cards for us. So, we thought, we'll skip forward and keep building our family anyway.

We have lots of practice loving the kiddos we already know. What we really want is a cool little person to hang out with all the time, play with, teach fun stuff to, and do life with. We can't wait to start loving them.

Ryan first asked Kristy out in an email that gave us our first nicknames for each other. We dated, Ryan moved for his job, we dated long distance, and we finally married at my parents' house on the day of a torrential rainstorm. Rather than dampening our plans (if you'll excuse the pun), we scooted everyone inside, said our vows, and had a house party- most fun we've ever had!

They say rain on your wedding day is good luck, and we definitely feel lucky to have found each other. We never get tired of hanging out together, and we've been great partners in work, travel, house projects, cooking, family visits, and everything life throws at us!

One of our friends has joked that we have more hobbies than anyone else she knows... maybe that's true! We both love learning how to build or make things (like furniture or board games), doing projects together, traveling, playing board games, watching movies, and trying new things! We work together really well!

Ryan describes Kristy as being smart and clever, creative and caring. "As an artist, she has this incredible ability to see beauty in the world, and her passion for her work is contagious.

Every day with her is filled with laughter, kindness, and love. She's always positive and never fails to make a situation fun and goofy."

Kristy says that Ryan is "honestly my favorite person in the whole world. He's fun, and really smart, always learning how to do something new. He's considerate, making sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable. He's really good at not just making plans, but making sure we follow through.

Whenever I have a dream, Ryan encourages me to go for it, and he helps me make it happen. He's great at telling goofy jokes when I need cheering up, and he loves to play games and have a good time. He's the best!"

Both sides of the family are super excited and ready to welcome a child through adoption!

We're very lucky to have close relationships with our parents and siblings. They are extremely supportive, love us unconditionally, and are ready to be involved as grandparents, aunties, uncles, and cousins!

• Be kind and gentle, give lots of hugs, and make sure your child knows they are loved and accepted for who they are.
• Be good teachers who include your child in our interests & passions.
• Be good listeners & learners to discover and nurture your child's interests & passions.
• Be fun, funny, and adventurous.
• Give your child every educational opportunity we can find for them.
• Help them build close relationships with family.
• Make sure they have opportunities to connect with their heritage and cultural traditions.
• Be enthusiastic about helping them write their own story as they grow and change.
• Be available for difficult conversations, always be honest with them-- and you.
• Honor your role as birth mother, and make sure your child knows adoption is part of their story.
• We promise to love them, no matter what, and so much more!

We hope this profile has given you a glimpse into our world and what we can offer your child. We know this is an emotional time for you. Words can't express how deeply we admire and respect your courage to make this choice for your child.

As both our mothers said, "There will never be another child more wanted and loved." We both have always wanted a family, and since the day we were married, that desire has only grown stronger. We are grateful that you have taken the time to look into our lives and consider us as parents for your child.