Hello! We are Nick & Ryan from Missouri! Thank you for taking the time to read more about us. We cannot wait to become parents, and sincerely appreciate the opportunity to share with you why. Since the very beginning of our relationship almost 15 years ago, parenthood has been part of our plan. There is something about being dads together, that words cannot express. The gift of raising a child together will complete our family.

Our commitment to you is this; we promise to love and cherish every moment of the gift you are providing and will ensure that there is never a doubt that from your arms to ours—there is unconditional love.

Our lives are better because of each other. We met in 2005 through a mutual friend. Our first date entailed going on a paddle boat ride and a walk through the zoo. We wanted to talk and learn about each other that first day. As cliché as it sounds, we have been inseparable ever since. We are fortunate to find our “better half” in each other and have learned over the years that teamwork is the key to a successful partnership, whether that is errands, yard work and our future parenthood adventure.

I grew up close to where we live today in St. Charles, Missouri. In fact, my parents still live in my childhood home right down the road. Surrounded by my siblings; Lisa, Tim, Amy and Cady—there was never a shortage of adventures. That sense of family kept me close to home for college where I earned degrees in communications and marketing. That course work has enabled me to have a solid career in the information technology sector with a company that provides paternity leave, flexible working hours and a wonderful work/life balance.

Nick is simply the most amazing person! I know, I know, everyone says that about those nearest and dearest to them, but for real, it’s true. Not only does his rugged handsomeness and piercing blue eyes light up a room when he enters, but he literally exudes the most genuine kindness that makes everyone who meets him, just absolutely adore and love him in an instant. His cander, positivity and perspective on life make not only me, but all those close to him better people. He’s a natural born leader that has the gift of inspiration, but a humility that makes it all his own.

Aside from the fact that everyone loves my Nick, he’s just meant to be a dad. His ability to relate to children is most impressive. In fact, myself, as well as many of our friends and family call him the “child whisperer”. Doesn’t matter if it’s a little boo-boo on the knee from a fall or a full-on temper tantrum, Nick is a real-life superhero and can get any trying situation defused.

If he could instill just the tiniest bit of his character into another little human, I promise the world will be a better place for it. He has so anxiously and patiently awaited this process and has worked so hard to make this dream a reality and I just can’t wait to see our child in his arms.

I grew up in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. It was the best of both worlds. The city was large enough to offer plenty of activities, but a short drive to rural activities. I attended Southeast Missouri State University and had nothing but amazing experiences.

After college I learned that I enjoy being around different types of people and personalities. For the past 13 years, I’ve been in sales and consulting and enjoy helping others grow their business and be successful. My company is family owned and operated and with that, understands the very meaning of a “family first” culture. They have been fully supportive of our journey and will allow me to be more than flexible with my needs as a parent.

I may be a little biased, but Ryan is truly the most passionate and loyal person I’ve ever met. When he walks into a room, his charismatic nature just floods it with energy, sometimes it still takes me by surprise! From the first time I met him, I knew that he was special, and not just because he is a charmer. By nature, he is a provider and protector. Truly always wanting the best for those around him—whether it’s at work, with family or friends he is a positive force to be reckoned with and a beamingly marvelous smile to boot.

He is literally what keeps me grounded, and when we are together there is a sense of stability and security that ensures that I always feel safe and loved.

I know Ryan will make a great dad because he is disciplined, funny, passionate, kind and loving in a way that always makes you feel connected. I cannot wait to witness Ryan become “Papa” and shower our future family with the love and support that I’ve been fortunate enough to experience in our years together.

Family is what keeps us centered. No matter what is going on in our lives, they are always a part of it—whether a visit to each other’s homes, or a phone call to chat, there is no shortage of family connections.

Nick’s dad, Fred runs his own heavy equipment business, so there was never a shortage of boyhood dirt and discovery! Fred likes to work on classic cars in his free time and loves to share his enthusiasm with us. Nick’s Mom, Trish was a nurse, that has since retired, and that nurturing nature transcends into all of Nick’s siblings. Her favorite job today is being “Nana” to the 7 nieces and nephews. The crew seems to always be growing in number—more cousins!

Ryan’s mom, Linda is a retired banker, and his dad, Keith was in sales but is no longer with us. Linda keeps busy being “Mimi” to our other niece and nephew. Brandon, Ryan’s younger brother and his wife Tara do not live close but visit regularly. It makes for some fun road trips to the country life.

Being the “Uncles” is one of the greatest gifts that our siblings have given us. We thoroughly enjoy spending time with our nieces and nephews. We couldn’t ask for a sweeter, kinder group of kids to call our family, and look forward to adding our own addition.

Our home was purchased in 2009 and over the course of the years we’ve applied our personal touches and readied it for a growing family. Placed on a quiet cul-de-sac in suburban St. Charles, Missouri, the traditional 2-story home has more than ample room for a child to grow up. The large yard, established subdivision with sidewalks, a good school system and close proximity to Nick’s family makes it an ideal location!

There are plenty of parks and trails nearby, not to mention the metro area provides plenty of culture with the zoo, museums and plenty of kid centric activities! Being in the suburbs of St. Louis, we are less than 30 minutes to virtually anywhere. Plus, the benefit of living here is that we have accessibility to nurture and develop anything our future child will enjoy; where that be the arts, science or sports.

We have two very spoiled Labradors: Morgan and Margot. The “girls” as we affectionately call them, are super active. Daily walks, toys galore, play time, puppy snuggles and even swimming in the summer! They love people of all ages, and are always welcomed in our friends and family’s homes. Sometimes they’re even requested!
They will make great companions for our future child!

Thank you for considering us as adoptive parents for your child. Our dream of parenthood begins with you. Our parents have provided wonderful examples of what love and respect truly mean, and we cannot wait to provide that same admiration to our own son or daughter.

Again, our commitment to you is to love and cherish every moment of the gift you are providing and will ensure that there is never a doubt that from your arms to ours—there is unconditional love.

With Love,
Ryan & Nick