Adventure is one of our favorite parts of life together. We love road trips, hiking, camping under the stars, and staying in cozy cabins or even on working farms with animals. One of our dreams is to visit all 63 National Parks—we’ve already made it to 14! Some highlights include hiking Logan’s Pass in Glacier National Park, seeing the Grand Prismatic in Yellowstone National Park, eating donuts on Pike’s Peak, lobster rolls in Maine, and a jeep ride through the Rockies.

Our favorite trip so far has been to Key West. We flew into Fort Lauderdale, drove through the Keys, fed tarpon at Robbie’s, visited the Turtle Hospital, and stopped at the Dolphin Research Center. Sunshine, music, and laughter made it unforgettable—simply enjoying life together.

We are so blessed to come from families filled with love, laughter, and constant support. Both sides are very close—we share holidays, Sunday dinners, and lean on each other through life’s ups and downs. Trish’s parents, Ron and Margie (“Nanny” and “Poppy”), adore their four grandchildren and our pup, Woodstock. Josh’s parents, Robert and Terry (“Pop-pop” and “G-mom”), love being grandparents to three. Together, our families have blended into one big, joyful circle, and they can’t wait to welcome another little one.

Our siblings mean the world to us. Trish’s siblings, Ronnie and Jenna, and Josh’s sister, Sarah, are kind, dependable, and always by our side. All three were adopted, which makes their support on our adoption journey especially meaningful. Being “aunt” and “uncle” brings us so much joy—we treasure watching soccer games, dance recitals, and band performances, and celebrating each milestone together.

Family traditions are the heart of our lives—from Christmas trivia and pick-up soccer with Josh’s family to St. Patrick’s Day parties and big Christmas gatherings with Trish’s. Surrounded by extended family and friends who feel like family, we are reminded daily that love and loyalty are what truly make a family.

We live in a small, welcoming Pennsylvania community where kids play, neighbors chat, and families feel at home. Our local schools are strong in academics, arts, sports, and student well-being, and we love being near playgrounds, basketball courts, and family—my sister is a short walk away, with other relatives nearby. Fall walks among vibrant leaves are a favorite tradition.

Our greatest shared joy is Woodstock, our gentle seven-year-old pup. Caring for him has taught us patience, attentiveness, and the heart of parenting. He’s happiest on hikes, camping trips, and neighborhood walks, but just as content cuddling close. Always loving and wonderful with children, Woodstock fills our lives with laughter and comfort—and we know he’ll be the best “big brother” to a little one.

Adoption is a meaningful part of our lives. Josh is adopted, as is his sister, Sarah, and Trish’s siblings, Ronnie and Jenna. Our best friends also adopted their daughter, who is a big part of our lives. Because of this, we are surrounded by people who truly understand adoption and openly share their experiences. Josh’s parents even founded a support group, Parents of Internationally Adopted Children (PIAC), offering guidance and connection to families like ours.

We have strong, loving connections with our siblings and each other’s siblings. Their adoption stories have given us unique insight into what it means to be adopted, how to approach conversations with openness, and how to navigate adoption-related experiences throughout life. Both our parents and siblings have shared their excitement, happiness, and support for us as we begin this journey, which makes us feel deeply encouraged and loved.

We are blessed to have family and friends who will surround our future child with understanding, belonging, and unconditional love.