Wendy with Sisters, Nieces, Friend
and God Daughter in New York City

Wendy grew up as the middle child of five girls. Her sisters range in ages from three years older to thirteen years younger. Wendy is close to all of her sisters and considers them her dearest friends. Wendy's favorite childhood memory is baking Christmas cookies with her mom and sisters. Each year we would spend one day baking from morning to late at night, making all of our family favorites. Once finished we could have a couple cookies, but the rest had to wait until Christmas week. We would even hide the chocolate chips from Wendy's dad. As adults we have continued this tradition of baking Christmas cookies together and have even put together a family cookie cookbook so the favorite recipes don't get lost. This is a memory and tradition Wendy hopes to share one day with a child while we make some family traditions of our own.

Pete's Extended Family

Pete grew up the youngest of four children. His favorite childhood memory is at Christmas time. Pete's father worked at the airport and at Christmas time he would take all of us to work. To Pete's delight, Santa Clause would drive a plane right into the hanger, presenting each child with a gift. Afterwards we would all have our picture taken with Santa. Pete's family has since spread out across the country, but we're always together for Christmas Eve at his brother's house. There are always plenty of laughs when everyone gets together. We eat all day, and exchange gifts in between courses.

Our Home

We live in a 4 bedroom Cape Cod style home on a one acre wooded lot. We have a large backyard where we enjoy barbecues, gardening, and bird watching. We really enjoy watching the deer stroll through the backyard. Last spring, a mother deer would drop her baby off each morning. We would check on the baby deer each day as if we were day care providers until the mother deer returned at night. On warm summer evenings, we sit in the backyard and look at the stars. On cooler nights we light a fire outside on the patio and toast marshmallows with our neighbors. Our dog Murphy is fascinated with fireflies. There is already a spot in the back yard for a swing set and sand box.

Our Family Room

Our neighborhood is family oriented with a top rated school system. The community is centered on children's' activities such as soccer, baseball and scouts. Our town has wonderful recreational facilities including a large outdoor pool, ball fields and park. During the winter, you'll find lots of activity at the local pond. It all starts with a tree lighting ceremony in December, where Santa arrives by fire truck and hands out lollipops to all the kids. There's a bonfire and hot chocolate for all. The pond is home to many ice skating parties including the Valentine's Day Sweetheart skating party.