Love Makes a Family: Our Adoption Journey

There is something about the Christmas season that has always felt especially sacred to us. Maybe it’s the slower pace, the traditions that ground us, or the way this time of year invites reflection and gratitude. Whatever it is, Christmas has our hearts.

This year, the season was even more meaningful because we were able to spend Christmas with Jessica’s family in Montana. Being together reminded us just how much we value family time. Jessica’s family loves to gather, play games, laugh late into the night, and simply enjoy being together. Those moments are the kinds of memories we hope to continue creating and carrying into our growing family.

Traditions are a big part of what makes Christmas so special to us. One tradition from Jessica’s family that we absolutely love is opening a brand-new board game on Christmas Eve. It sets the tone for the holiday: togetherness, fun, and a little friendly competition. Another tradition that both of our families share, and that we now carry on together, is getting a new Christmas ornament each year. We love looking back and seeing our story told on the tree. This year’s ornament represents a big milestone for us: buying our first home. It feels so symbolic of the season we’re in of putting down roots and building a life together.

One of the most unique traditions we got to participate in this year being with Jessica’s family is “the nut in the pudding.” Everyone gets a cup of pudding, but only one has a peanut hidden inside. Whoever finds the peanut wins a special present called “the nut.” It’s simple, a little silly, and always brings so much laughter. The specialness of the season is exactly the kind of tradition we hope to pass down someday.

This season is also especially dear to us because we celebrate our anniversary between Christmas and New Years. We’ve now been married for three years, and it’s hard to put into words how meaningful that feels. Our love has grown deeper each year, and we are so grateful for the life we are building together. We truly love creating this life: one rooted in love, faith, laughter, and hope.

As the new year approaches, we’re feeling excited and expectant. We’re looking forward to seeing how we grow in 2026, both as individuals and as a couple entering another year of marriage. We are constantly striving to be better versions of ourselves and are excited to continue establishing our lives, traditions, and future, one season at a time.

Christmas reminds us why family matters so much, and why our hearts are so open to growing ours.