As we open the book on 2024, it's hard to believe that we started our adoption journey over six years ago. There have been so many unexpected twists and turns and, while we haven't been sending out many updates lately, it hasn't been for lack of movement. If anything, the last couple of years have prompted us to be more conservative in what we announce. Many of the doors that we thought were open to us over the years ended up closing just as we began crossing the threshold.
 

However, as we turn the corner into this new year, we are thrilled to share an update with you:

We have successfully adopted an embryo through the Snowflakes adoption program and, with the help of a wonderful young mother in Alabama, are excitedly anticipating a new little life in our family this coming April!

So far, the baby has been hitting all of its milestones in the pregnancy and is right on track in terms of size and weight, with a strong heartbeat. Our son, Steven, who has taken a keen interest in gardening over the past several years, has nicknamed his new sibling, "Pumpkin." This is a picture from Pumpkin's 20-week ultrasound.

We are looking forward to sharing more with you over the coming months as we prepare our home and our hearts to welcome this beautiful little life. Your support, thoughts, and prayers have meant so much to us over the years and we are excited to finally share with you the fruits of this long season of anticipation.

With love, and hope for the new year,

Ashley, Chris, and Steven