Ski Trip with Marci’s Family

Both of us are very close to our parents who have each been married for more than 35 years. Marci’s parents split their time between two residences; one in Middle Tennessee and the remaining time at their Montana retreat, which is also our favorite vacation spot. We eagerly anticipate our annual trip to Yellowstone National Park but always enjoy weekend outings closer to home, as well.

Marci's parents are thrilled about becoming grandparents again and have always been very supportive of our adoption plans. Though now retired, Marci's father was touched by adoption many times during his career as an OBGYN. Marci's mother will soon start knitting a blanket for her next grandchild; a traditional gift she also completed for all of the younger cousins.

Ryan’s Extended Family

Marci's brother has a four year old son, Will, who is a major part of our lives. Will has his own nickname for Ryan, "Rymie". The trend started when he couldn't pronounce Ryan's name correctly as a baby, but we loved it so much we've let it stay. When Will comes to visit we enjoy going to the zoo, the pool, or even just playing chase around the house. During one recent visit, Marci took Will to buy Christmas gifts for his parents; a model plane for dad and some watercolors for mom. Afterwards, we came home and created personalized gift wrap using stamps, stickers, and crayons. We are eager to share the same activities with a new addition to the family.

Ryan’s parents live nearby and are extremely excited about becoming grandparents for the first time. In fact, they've already stocked-up on nursery essentials. Ryan also has one brother, who is raring to spoil his first niece or nephew. We spend a lot of time with Ryan's extended family who is very close. They frequently gather for dinner parties in celebration of holidays and family birthdays. Ryan's cousins' range in age from infant to 28 years, so every event comes with plenty of good times and plenty of good food.

We have a special relationship with Ryan's uncle. He is only a few years older than Ryan so they are more like brothers. He is married to Marci's best friend and it was they who introduced us. Erik and Cammie have a three-year-old daughter and newborn son.

Our Home

The street we live on has little traffic. Families often play in their yards or take leisurely sidewalk strolls. Our home is a two-story brick with a covered porch and back patio. It features an open floor plan with living room, kitchen, dining room, three bedrooms, and two baths all on the first floor. The second level is a large bonus room which is where we spend much of our time. Marci enjoys the spacious kitchen while Ryan has converted the garage into his personal home workshop. We are hopeful that the fenced back yard will soon be occupied by a swing set and sand box.

Neighborhood Swim Center

Our home is in a suburb, in a newly-built residential development. Our desire to start a family was the main reason we chose this subdivision. Our community includes a swim center, playgrounds, sidewalks throughout, and a two-mile greenway that winds along a narrow river. Furthermore, our neighborhood association sponsors several annual events; a summer luau, a fall festival and an Easter egg hunt. On Halloween, everyone spends the evening on their front porches in order to hand out candies and get a closer look at the many ghosts and goblins.

Close by are many family entertainment options. The area includes parks, hiking trails, churches, several schools, shopping and restaurants. In the city, you will find a zoo, museums, live theatre, professional sports teams, music of every variety, as well as historical exhibits.