We first met back in 2003 at a local restaurant. Steph had just graduated from high school, and Mike was in his senior year. Steph quickly became close friends with Mike's sister--and from the moment Mike saw her, he told his sister he had to meet her. Not long after, Steph ended up being Mike's prom date. We became fast friends and shared a great connection, even back then.

Life took us in different directions after that. Steph moved away for school, explored the country (and even a bit of the world), and Mike stayed close to home, surrounded by family and the community he's always loved.

Nearly 20 years later, we ran into each other while Steph was back in town visiting. At the time, Steph was actually engaged to be married--but that unexpected moment changed everything. All the old feelings were still there, and it quickly became clear that we were meant to be something more than friends. After a lot of reflection and some incredibly tough decisions, Steph called off the wedding and moved back home. From there, we picked up right where we left off--and fell in love.

We dated for five wonderful years, building a life together filled with laughter, support, and a deep sense of home. In June of 2023, Mike proposed in our house--just the two of us--and Steph said yes without hesitation. We were married that November, surrounded by our closest friends and family, at one of our favorite local spots. It was a day full of love and joy.

Now, we're ready to grow our family through adoption. We can't wait to welcome a child into our home--where they'll be surrounded by unconditional love, plenty of adventure, books, and support every step of the way... and lots of affection from our three cats and two dogs.

"Do what you will, always, walk where you like, your steps, do as you please, I'll back you up." -Dave Matthews

Hi, I'm Steph! I was adopted as a baby and have always known I was adopted--from the moment I could understand what it meant. My parents, who raised me, are true angels. They gave me a loving, supportive home, and while I didn't always recognize that when I was younger, I now know just how lucky I've been.

I grew up with an older brother who was also adopted. Our childhood was filled with backyard forts, books, and every sport you could think of. I eventually focused on volleyball and played competitively through high school and into college.

At 18, I found my biological father and, over time, met both of my biological parents, their spouses, and my three half-siblings--Matty, Joey, and Megan--who I love dearly and am so grateful to have in my life.

I also have an amazing group of girlfriends I've been close with for over 20 years. We get together every month--sometimes with the kids, sometimes just us--to catch up, celebrate, and support one another. Those friendships have truly become chosen family.

Much of who I am comes from the influence of extended family. Grammy and Poppy, my mom's parents, and Aunt Barb, my dad's sister, helped raise us. Aunt Barb was both a nun and an interior designer--wise, faithful, and so much fun. Grammy was smart, warm, and loving, and Poppy was quiet, kind, and deeply thoughtful. Their presence in my life was a gift I carry with me always.

After school in Western New York, I moved to Thailand to teach--and that's where I found my passion for education. I later earned my teaching certification and master's in education, teaching in Arizona and Tennessee before returning home. While I'd hoped to stay in the classroom, life led me in a new direction. I became an analyst at a large organization, where I've grown in ways I never imagined. I still volunteer in schools whenever I can--education is forever in my heart.

I love staying active--hiking, kayaking, rollerblading, and weightlifting five days a week keeps me grounded. I also cherish walks with our sweet dog, Lane. I find peace in the outdoors and joy in my gardens, decorating our home, and creating cozy spaces that feel like "us."

One of my greatest joys is live music. I'm a huge Dave Matthews Band fan, and summer concerts with friends and family are simply the best. There's nothing like great music and great company to fill your soul.

Teaching has been the most rewarding thing I've ever done. Children are the light of the world -- everything is new and exciting through their eyes, and there's nothing better than sparking that curiosity and joy for learning in them.

"Don't worry about a thing, 'cause every little thing is gonna be all right." -Bob Marley

Hi, I'm Mike! I had a really great childhood growing up with my mom, dad, and my sister, Dee. We spent a lot of time on the road traveling for my sister's gymnastic competitions, and I was always outside playing baseball or getting into some kind of mischief with my friends and family--especially on the zipline we had in our yard!

I've always loved traveling, especially with friends and family, but I've stayed close to home throughout my life because family is so important to me, and I truly love where I live. I actually bought the house right next door to my parents, and I've always been very close with them. My dad was my best friend. He passed away in early 2021, and losing him was one of the hardest things I've ever gone through.

We used to catch up every single day--after work, I'd head over just to talk about whatever was on my mind. He was an incredible inspiration and sounding board for me. He also helped me start building the addition on our home, so his passing hit especially hard in that way too. But now, as I've continued building our home, I take such pride in doing it with the same care and love we started with together. My dad always said a house is like a jigsaw puzzle--you're never really done, you're always working on one piece at a time. He also taught me that anything I build should outlive me, because of the quality and heart I put into it. That's something I carry with me every day.

Football, basketball and baseball were the main sports I played growing up, and while I didn't branch out into many others, I've always enjoyed watching sports--and I've really come to love playing golf over the years too. These days, I enjoy just about anything outdoors, from snowboarding and camping to working in the yard. Some of my favorite moments are spent around a campfire, listening to live music, or simply enjoying time with my wife.

One of my greatest passions is woodworking. I've built most of our home myself, and now I take even more pride in each project I take on--knowing I'm finishing what my dad and I started together. Whether it's building furniture, adding finishing touches to the house, or just fixing something that needs attention, I put a lot of care into everything I do. I also love spending time with our pets and taking care of both our yard and my mom's next door. There's something really grounding about maintaining a space filled with love--and making sure it's a home that lasts, just like my dad taught me.

"Home is wherever I'm with you." Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

• We were prom dates...before we were even a couple!
• We were friends for over 20 years before falling in love.
• Mike built half of our home with his own two hands--Steph painted most of it.
• We're total opposites in the best ways--Steph's the planner, Mike's the calm in the storm.
• We both love live music and go to at least one Dave Matthews Band concert every summer.
• Our Great Dane Lab, Evie, thinks she's a lap dog--and we let her believe it.
• We share our home with two dogs and three cats--Evie, Lane, Hobie, Simon, and Charlie--and they are all full of personality and love.
• We love landscaping our yard and Mike's mom's and have dreams of building a greenhouse one day.
• Mike has a "Gypsy Woodshop" where he builds beautiful things--Steph calls it his happy place.
• We both believe that laughter, love, and music make the world go round.

What Steph Loves About Mike:

I love that Mike is kind, patient, creative, and so very talented. He's one of the smartest people I know, and not just book smart--he can fix or build just about anything. But what I love most is his big, sensitive heart. He loves deeply, quietly, and steadily--and I feel so lucky to be loved by him.

What Mike Loves About Steph:

Steph is the definition of a go-getter--she dreams big, works hard, and makes magic happen. She's creative, caring, dedicated, and always thinking of ways to bring joy to others. I admire her fire and her heart. She's loving to her core, and I know she'll be the most amazing mom.

"Once in a while, you get shown the light in the strangest of places, if you look at it right." -Grateful Dead

• Holds two associate degrees--one in Maintenance Electricity & Construction Technology, and another in Electrical Engineering Technology.
• Certified Supervisor through the Manufacturing Business Association and pursuing continuing education in Business Administration.
• Can fix literally anything--he's our in-house handyman, electrician, and builder.
• Has a huge heart for animals but absolutely won't watch anything where one gets hurt.
• Loves being outdoors--camping, hiking, golfing, snowboarding, or just hanging out with family and friends.
• Has a talent for all things laid-back and fun: darts, ping pong, cornhole--you name it.
• Enjoys finding hidden treasures while antiquing and listening to great music.
• Sensitive, smart, endlessly creative, and quietly hilarious.

"All the flowers of tomorrow are in the seeds of today." -Elizabeth Kendall

• Holds a Master's in Education (Reading), Bachelor's in English with a minor in Journalism, Teaching Certification in Elementary Education, and an Associate's in Liberal Arts & Humanities.
• Taught in three different states (and one different continent!) and still volunteers in schools whenever she can.
• Godmother to her nephew, Owen.
• Loves to read--especially curled up with a cozy blanket, a cat, and a cup of something warm to drink.
• Finds joy in playing in her flowerbeds, hiking, snowboarding, and camping under the stars.
• Big fan of adventures--whether that's traveling somewhere new or discovering treasures at antique shops.
• Always surrounded by animals, music, creativity, and laughter.

"Family is not an important thing. It is everything." -Michael J. Fox

Mike's mom, Gigi, lives right next door. While she's retired, she still works part-time at a local retailer because she's so social and loves engaging with others. We see her often and feel so lucky to have her nearby--not only to support us, but so we can support her whenever needed. Mike's sister, Dee, and her husband, Aaron, live close by with their son, Warren. We love spending time with them--whether we're attending local events, popping over for a visit, or celebrating birthdays and holidays together.

Mike's dad, Dan, passed away in 2021. He was Mike's best friend and the heart of their family. His passing left a deep hole, but we do our best to keep his fun-loving and family-first spirit alive through the way we cherish each other and the life we've built together.

Steph is lucky to have three branches of family who are all incredibly special. First are the parents who raised her--lovingly known as Lolli and Pop. They are warm, kind, and deeply supportive. Even in retirement, they stay active by volunteering at a local nature preserve and lighthouse. Lolli is also Pop's full-time caregiver as he manages Parkinson's, and their partnership and strength are nothing short of inspiring. We have weekly dinners with them and often bring both sides of the family together for celebrations.

Steph's biological family includes Meme and Don, Megan, Matt and Janelle, and her nephews Riley and Owen, Joey and Meredith, and Grandma Ev, who all live a couple of hours away. We see them several times a year, especially during the holidays and to celebrate birthdays. Megan will be starting college at a nearby university this year, and we're so excited to have her closer and to be part of her journey through her college years.

Steph's biological father and his wife live out west. While we don't see them often, they enjoy the outdoors and all the beauty their area has to offer.

Hobie

Hobie is our oldest and wisest pet--our beloved black cat and true king of the castle. He's incredibly affectionate and adores everyone--humans and animals alike. Steph found him under her car while teaching in Arizona, and he's been by her side ever since, traveling across the country from Arizona to Tennessee and back home. Hobie is more than a pet--he's Steph's very best friend and the heart of our home.

Simon

Simon is our cream-colored kitty with a calm, wise demeanor. He was rescued from a ditch as a kitten and raised by one of Steph's best friends, Laurel. Simon is a little sophisticated and a little stoic, but incredibly loving--especially when it comes to his parents. He's very loyal and a bit territorial, but he plays like a kitten with his brothers. He brings a peaceful presence to our home.

Charlie

Charlie is our youngest black cat, and he's a total love bug. He was originally meant to be our garage kitty to help with mice, but his sweet personality quickly made that plan impossible! He purrs nonstop, snuggles up wherever you are, and fits in perfectly with the rest of the crew. He loves playing with his older brothers and sisters and brings such a joyful, gentle energy to our home.

Lane

Lane is our oldest dog and a total sweetheart. She's food-obsessed (you'll definitely win her heart with a treat!), but more than anything, she's a cuddle queen. She'll gently nudge your hand for pets and love, and she's never met a person she didn't adore. Lane is the definition of a gentle soul.

Evie

Evie is our beautiful Great Dane/Lab mix--a "Labridane" with a whole lot of love to give! She's our little princess with a big personality. Evie acts more like a human than a dog sometimes, and she's always making us laugh with her sweet quirks. She's playful, affectionate, and absolutely loves sitting on the front porch, watching the world go by.

We absolutely love our home. Back in 2019, we started building an addition--right as the world was going through so many changes. It took us a while (thanks, COVID!), but with a lot of heart and hard work, we nearly doubled the size of our house. Michael and his dad built so much of it together, and after his father's passing, our incredible friends helped us finish it. It's truly a space filled with love, memories, and care.

Our yard is one of our favorite spots, and having Mike's mom, Gigi, just next door makes it even more special. We love having family so close--it brings such a sense of comfort and connection.

We live in the northeastern United States, in a peaceful countryside neighborhood that still gives us easy access to all the fun and culture we enjoy. One of the things we love most about where we live is how magical the seasons are.

Winter

Winter turns our yard into a snowy wonderland. We get lots of snow--just right for snowboarding, sledding, building snowmen, and making snow angels. Mike fires up the snowblower (minimal shoveling here!), and despite the work, it's a season that always brings us closer together.

Spring

Spring is especially dear to us. Everything starts to bloom and come alive, and the world just feels fresh and full of promise. It's like nature's way of saying, "Here's a new beginning." It's beautiful and full of color and joy.

Summer

Summer brings sunshine and adventure. We're close to the lake, so we enjoy trips to the water, and we absolutely love camping in the Allegheny National Forest--there's nothing like being surrounded by nature and sleeping under the stars. We also make the most of our vibrant local community by heading downtown for baseball games, live music, and cultural events that celebrate the wonderfully diverse place we call home.

Fall

Fall is one of our favorites. We love bundling up for local fall festivals, enjoying seasonal treats like cider and pumpkin beers, and carving pumpkins together. The leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, and the air is crisp and cozy--perfect for making memories outdoors.

• Every Christmas, we set up and decorate our tree together--this past year, we added a 12-foot tree in our new living room, and it was magical.
• Steph and her mom bake Christmas cookies together every year--a sweet and cherished tradition.
• On Mother's Day, Steph and her mom go flower shopping together, bonding over their shared love of nature and blooms.
• We make an annual summer trip to Western New York to celebrate family birthdays--full of laughter, food, and love.
• Holidays with our family are celebrated potluck-style--everyone brings their favorite dish, and the table is always filled with delicious food and happy memories.
• Every summer, we attend a Dave Matthews Band concert together--it's one of our favorite traditions as a couple.
• Our first camping trip of the year is something we always look forward to--surrounded by nature, unplugged, and fully present with each other.

• Digging up a live Christmas tree with our child, decorating it together, and planting it in the yard to watch it grow year after year.
• Decorating Easter eggs together and creating fun, messy, colorful memories.
• Carving pumpkins each fall--choosing designs, scooping out seeds, and baking them for a yummy snack.
• Tie-dyeing t-shirts and getting creative with bright colors and lots of laughter.
• Hiding the Christmas pickle ornament in the tree for a special holiday scavenger hunt.
• Dressing up in family-themed costumes for Halloween--we already have ideas!
• Hosting cozy backyard bonfires with marshmallows, stories, and snuggles under the stars.
• Pressing flowers and fall leaves in a flower press book and turning them into homemade decorations.
• Creating birdhouses and feeders with Dad in the "Gypsy Woodshop"--learning, building, and making memories together.
• Ending each day with a bedtime story--creating a loving, calm routine full of cuddles and imagination.

"Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover" -Mark Twain

Adventure has always been a part of our story--whether it's a cross-country trip or a spontaneous weekend getaway. One of our favorite places we've ever been is Aruba. The beaches, the sunshine, the calm--it's a slice of paradise we both absolutely love and can't wait to visit again someday.

We've also explored the mountains of Colorado, vacationed in Jamaica, and taken many trips to Florida to visit family and soak up the sunshine. During the pandemic and while we were working on building our home and trying to grow our family, we took a break from traveling far. But our sense of adventure never left us.

These days, we find so much joy in simple escapes--camping in the Allegheny National Forest, visiting friends and family on weekend road trips, listening to live music downtown, and taking our camper out to explore the beauty of nature nearby.

No matter where we go, our favorite part is doing it together. And we can't wait to share these adventures--both big and small--with a child. Whether it's seeing a beach for the first time, roasting marshmallows by the fire, or dancing to music in the park, we're so excited to experience the world through their eyes and make a lifetime of memories as a family.

Friends are the family you choose

In addition to our relatives, we are lucky to have friend groups that feel like family. Both of us have friendships that have lasted more than 20 years. Now, we celebrate holidays, birthdays, and milestones together--watching our lives and our families grow. These friends have been with us through every stage of life, and we know they'll be just as important in our future as we raise a child in such a loving, connected circle.

All you need is love

When we got back together in 2018, we were both in our early 30s. Even though we'd been close friends for over 20 years, we wanted to give our relationship the time and space to grow into something strong and lasting before starting a family. When the time came to have children, things didn't go as we had hoped. We tried naturally, and then with the help of fertility treatments--including IUI and IVF--working with wonderful local clinics. Along the way, we experienced a heartbreaking miscarriage. After over three years of trying, and stepping into our fourth, we made the incredibly emotional decision to close the chapter on having a biological child.

But our dream of becoming parents never changed. We've both wanted to build a family with children for as long as we can remember. We believe children are the light of the world--they bring laughter, curiosity, and joy. We were both blessed with loving upbringings and supportive families, and we know firsthand how special it is to grow up in a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. That's the kind of home we've built together--and now, we're ready to share it.

Adoption gives us the path to become parents, to open our hearts fully, and to raise a child in a life full of joy, steadiness, and love (with a few very cuddly fur siblings by their side, too!). That is why we have chosen adoption--and why we're so grateful to be on this journey.

As parents, we will love our child unconditionally, encourage their dreams, and support them every step of the way. We will create a home full of laughter, learning, and adventure. We'll help them grow into their best, happiest, healthiest selves--surrounded by love, lifted by encouragement, and celebrated for exactly who they are.

Steph Can't Wait To

• Cuddle up together and read bedtime stories every night
• Listen to their stories--big and small--and be their biggest cheerleader
• Explore the garden and go on nature walks and hikes together
• Make arts and crafts, paint, draw, or create--whatever brings them joy
• Share in their interests and help guide them gently through life
• Watch in awe as they grow into the beautiful person they're meant to be

Mike Can't Wait To

• Be a steady, loving presence as they grow into their unique and wonderful self
• Help them fix things around the house and explain how things work
• Throw a ball in the yard and play catch or kick around a soccer ball
• Explore science experiments, build with LEGOs, dive into tech, or get creative with art--whatever sparks their curiosity
• Cheer them on as they try new things and develop their own passions.
• Patiently and lovingly teach them woodworking skills in the "Gypsy Woodshop" (if they're interested!)

At the end of the day, we can't wait to meet our child--to love them fiercely, lift them up, and walk alongside them as they discover who they are. Whatever path they choose, we'll be right there, cheering them on with all our hearts.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read our story and for considering us as potential parents for your child. We know this journey isn't an easy one, and we are in awe of your strength, your love, and your courage in exploring adoption. Just reading these words, we hope you can feel how deeply grateful we are for your openness and trust.

There is truly nothing we would love more than to welcome your child into our lives. We promise to raise them in a home full of love, adventure, laughter, and unwavering support. Your child will grow up knowing where they came from, surrounded by people who will always lift them up, cheer them on, and love them beyond words.

We don't take this lightly. This decision means everything--and if you choose us, please know we'll spend every day honoring that choice.

With love, hope, and our whole hearts,

Steph & Michael