Part of Dan’s Family at a Wedding

We both take very much pride and comfort from our large families. One of our most enjoyable things to do is socialize at our home (which is great for entertaining), or traveling to meet with either side of our families. (We love mini vacations)

Dan was raised in a very loving, emotionally connected family. Born the second of three boys, Dan always felt very close to his brothers and still does to this day. Jon, the oldest, has a fantastic son, and wife, who live just north of us. Nate the youngest is engaged and has two children that are absolutely a big part of our lives.

Dan's parents are still married and always make you feel loved with a visit, or maybe just a phone call on their way back from work just to let you know they are thinking of you.

We all get together every chance we get, for holidays, birthdays, or sometimes a sneak attack around Father's/Mother's Day!

All of Dan's family is incredibly excited at even the thought of the adoption and arrival of a new baby. Even Dan's grandparents are constantly asking where we are with the process, and trying to figure out whether this would be their seventh or eighth great grandchild.

Part of Melinda’s Family at a Reunion

Melinda was raised the oldest of three children and has always felt fortunate to come from a loving, strong background. She feels very privileged to have younger siblings. Amber, Melinda's sister is 20, and her brother, Derek, is 17. Melinda is very connected to her family, whom she talks to every day. Melinda's parents are now divorced, but are remarried to two other special people. They are all overjoyed at the thought of finally having a grandchild or a niece/nephew.

A tradition that is very special to her whole family is Christmas Eve at her grandmother's house where more than 50 family members enjoy each others company, and even a special visit from Santa. We have a funny tradition that the newest male to join the family is nominated to play Santa for the children every year.

We have both been so excited by the acceptance and joy our family and friends have expressed towards adoption. Every time we talk to one of them they want to know how it's going and when there will be a new baby in our life. All we can do is thank them for their support, and smile inside knowing this child will definitely be loved by us all.

Home Sweet Log Home

We absolutely love our community and have lived in our current home for about two and a half years. Located in a rural setting yet just a 10-minute drive to the city, our home is nestled among trees and farmland. We live in a two-story log home situated on just under five acres. In our backyard we have a hot tub and in ground swimming pool surrounded by a privacy fence, which is always a hit with friends, family, and neighbors. We also have a one-acre pond with an island, perfect for fishing or just relaxing with the family. There is lots of green space for running and playing around our property. We have the perfect spot already picked out for a play set surrounded by trees and complete with a dawn to dusk light for those after dark play dates.

Sunday BBQ in Our Backyard

The interior of our home boasts three roomy bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a large kitchen and dining area, plus a spacious living room and loft. In the living room, there is a cozy stone fireplace perfect for those cool winter nights.

Every fall our neighborhood has a harvest festival complete with a BYOP (Bring Your Own Pumpkin) carving contest, hayride, and wienie roast. During the summer around the 4th of July we have an amazing fireworks display celebrating Dan and our neighbors' daughter's birthdays. Our community is diverse with lots of culture, family situations, and age groups. There are children of all ages from infant to teenagers ready for a new friend to play with.