We are blessed with so much love and support that our biggest dream is to share that with a child. Through the choices we make every day, we would instill in your child the integrity in doing the right thing for its own reward, the happiness in finding something kind to say or do, and the strength in selflessness. Above all else, your child would always feel special, and that he/she belongs and is loved not only by us, but also by you.

Jeff Debbie Job Description Senior Microbiologist Chemical Engineer Education B.S. in Microbiology B.S. & M.S in Chemical Engineering Favorites Childhood Memory Camping with Family Childhood Memory Summers at Loon Mountain Dream Job Forensic Investigator Dream Job Astronaut Movie Type Action/Sci-Fi Movie Type Sci-Fi/Horror Song Writer Trent Reznor Song Writer Ani Difranco Thing to Cook BBQ Chicken Pizza Thing to Cook Lasagna Children None

Many years ago, Debbie's godparents decided to adopt, and their family grew to include a second son. Since he is a few years older than Debbie, there was never a time when he was not in her life. The fact that one of their sons was adopted was never an issue. All of the family and extended family was so happy to have another child to love and shower with attention. We had the pleasure of speaking with Debbie's godparents and their children about how they grew up and how being adopted or having an adopted brother made them feel. They both felt loved equally and the idea of one being adopted never became an issue that pushed them apart or made either of them feel like an outsider.

We wish to adopt because we understand how a compassionate and inclusive family can positively affect a child. Debbie's parents were not close to their parents, and her mother feared her children would not know the love of a large family. But good friends of hers explained that friendships can also make family and offered to be grandparents. Debbie never forgot how this one kind act gave her an extended family complete with aunts, uncles and cousins, who were as loving and supportive as any blood ties. When we married, we decided to expand this gift, not only giving a child an extended family, but also a loving home.

Over the years we discussed our plans with friends and family who were adopted and listened to their perspectives and advice. We learned from them how rewarding adoption is for both the parents and the children. However, we have also tried for a biological child. Although there is no medical reason why our attempts were unsuccessful, we were left frustrated because we knew we could provide the foundation required for a child to thrive. Then we realized that our path was in front of us all along, and began to actively pursue adoption. While we tried having a biological child first, we do not regard adoption as a second or lesser choice. If we are blessed with a biological child in the future, both children would be raised the same and understand that every way that builds family is equally rewarding.

We feel that there should be no stigma in being an adopted child. We all have a life story and it is our different backgrounds that make all of our life stories unique and interesting. It is very important to us that your child knows his/her story. Although your child will live and grow with us, s/he will always be part of you. In order to recognize your selfless act, we plan on holding an annual celebration honoring your child's adoption. In addition to their birthday, we will celebrate "Adoption Day." On this day we will take time to review the story of how our two families joined with pictures and letters, and celebrate with friends and family. We will always be open and honest with any questions that arise. We want this child to know that s/he is a special gift from God to all of us. We feel that being adopted is not something that should be hidden from the child, but discussed with the child in an open and age appropriate manner. A child should always know about all of their family members and that includes you.

All of Us

Our pets are a big part of our lives. We have three cats and each has their own story. They were all strays and we are happy that we could rescue them and give them a good home. Each cat came into our lives fairly young and developed his own personality over the years. Theo is the oldest. He found Debbie when she was still in high school and is mature and wise. Herman came into our lives during the first year of our marriage. He looked into our window and knew he found two people who would always adore and care for him. Sam, the youngest, was more brazen. He walked into our open door and decided to stay. Sam loves people, and loves mischief, too. We enjoy our cats so much because they represent a special lesson of caring. Each have individual needs and problems and, while particular issues may be trying, each time we learn that the more you care for other living things, the more love you have to give.