Ken & Lori

We always envisioned a life with children; we anticipated a home filled with the enchanting sounds of childish laughter. We delight in participating in one of the most important and rewarding roles that could be gifted to us. That gift is to be able to love and nurture a child in a caring and healthy environment. It is the gift of actively participating, on every level, in the growth and development of a child so that they are encouraged to realize his/her full potential. We always hoped that this would be our future, and because there are people like you willing to make such a selfless and loving decision, our destiny has not been controlled by biology. Your gift is our life dream. Preferred Gender: Either

Ken Lori Job Description Self-Employed Defense Contractor for the Last 15 Years Stay-at-Home Mom Education B.A. in Design B.A. in English Favorites Disney Movie Finding Nemo Disney Movie The Little Mermaid Family Activity Bouncing on the Trampoline Family Activity Swimming Hobby Roller Hockey Hobby Painting Video Game Rock Band Video Game Wii Fit Type of Music Classic Rock Type of Music Classic Rock Children Justin-3 years old

We had the honor of adopting our son Justin in January of 2006. He has brought so much joy into our lives that adopting another child seems only natural. Justin is a happy, sweet and energetic two year old who loves swimming, basketball and would love to have a baby brother or sister.

When Justin was about 15 months old we started having some questions about his development and our doctor was telling us not to worry. First we found a new pediatrician and then found the best developmental pediatrician in the area and she informed us that Justin has autism. We immediately went to work on a strategy to help him. We are so excited to say that he is doing phenomenally. Everybody is so thrilled about his progress. His growth is a testament to his strength, intelligence and spirit. We are just so proud of him.

Although we have had some challenges, the rewards are incredible. A lot of people say that with autism, there is a window of opportunity to help the child. We really feel that we got Justin the help he needed early enough so that he will be able to go to a regular school and play sports and just be a "typical" kid. But if that shouldn't be the case nothing would change. We love Justin and will never stop trying to do everything we can to make his life as fulfilled as possible. We will do the same for any child we raise. We are dedicated to being the best parents we can be and we know that it isn't always easy but it is always worth it.

Written by Ken: I was three years old when my sister, Sharon, was adopted. My brother and I went to the hospital with our mom and dad to bring our little sister home. Her arrival into our family was never a mystery; the word "adopted" was never strange to us. While growing up, like most siblings, we argued, got on each other's nerves, played and laughed together. When I left for college, she cried as if I was going off to war, and when she was away at college, I took the big brother trip up to Penn State to check on how she was getting along. During her wedding ceremony, she reached back to hold my hand. That's my little sister and I couldn't imagine my life without her. Now, she's a wife, a mother, and a sister-in-law, but I'll let Lori tell you about their relationship.

Written by Lori: Sharon is more like a sister to me, and better even than that, I consider her one of my best friends. And, like sisters, sometimes we disagree and one or both of us may sulk, but it never lasts long. I value her friendship, her caring ways, her humor, and her dependability. We both know that if the need ever arises, we would both be there for one another. When Kenny and I married, not only did I get a wonderful husband but the lovely person who is my sister-in-law and my friend.

Ken Helping Lori with One of Her Paintings

We both grew up in families where education was paramount. Now in our household, we hold the same ideals. Learning, even from a young age, is so important. It shapes who you are and who you will be. We know our job is to make it fun and challenging at the same time. And we do and will continue to do so.

We will always be available for help with homework, flash cards and projects. We want to teach as well as be taught, this way a child can start to think independently and with confidence. Hopefully, our active involvement and encouragement will demonstrate the importance of, not only education, but also hard work.

We intend to provide the opportunity for college and will emphasize the advantages it can bring. We will share stories of how certain college experiences prepared us for "real life", the friendships we formed there, and the wealth of information we gained. Hopefully, this commitment will result in some hefty, but well worth it, tuition fees.