What's the first thing we want you to know about us?

It's this: more than anything,we want to bring a child in to our family. Because we are blessed to have a loving, stable relationship built on respect and trust, we know we can work together to give our child the things that really matter. We want to give our child loving parents, a strong extended family, emotional and physical security, a good education, a strong values system, and a healthy sense of self. These are the things that we believe make "a good life."

We grew up in neighboring towns and, oddly, had some of the same friends; but we did not meet until 10 years ago. We knew right away that we wanted to share our lives together, and we have never regretted our choice. On a day-to-day basis, we really enjoy spending time with one another, whether we are working on a project around the house, going to the movies, or just reading a book side by side. For example, we both loved and read the Harry Potter series, and Karl is an avid sci-fi reader.

We share many other common interests, one of which is all things Renaissance. Each summer we attend our local Renaissance Fair, where knights joust and compete in contests; and where the days of King Arthur come to life again through fun events and games.

Our home was designed by us with children in mind.

The small town where we live is located just one hour north of New York City; and it also happens to be the town where Regina grew up. So we know from long experience that it is a good place to raise a family. A few years ago we built a three-bedroom home with a large backyard on a portion of Regina's parents' property. Our home was designed by us with children in mind. Full of personality, it is a warm, inviting house, exactly what we wanted.

Two loveable, child-friendly dogs named Buddy and Jack share our space and add lots of fun to our lives. Our local school system is excellent, and we have a couple of nearby parks that are perfect for children to play in and explore.

Family is a big part of our life.

Family is a big part of our life. Our next-door neighbors are Regina's sister and brother-in-law, and their two young children. A short walk (or golf cart ride) down our hill will bring you to Regina's parents' home, where two of the world's most loving, generous, and proud grandparents live. Other frequent visitors to our home include Regina's brother, his wife and their three little boys. They live in a neighboring town about 20 minutes away. Always here for holidays and often at other times, Karl's mother is just a short drive across town. His brother, Alex, lives in Chicago; but we are lucky that is he able to come home several times a year. Alex normally stays with us when he comes to town. Our niece and nephews will be thrilled to have another little one to play with. For them and for us, the more the merrier. Every summer, Regina's family devotes one weekend to a family reunion. About 45 relatives come from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Massachusetts.

REGINA

Is strong, caring and loyal - my true soul mate. In so many ways, she is a very special person. She is dedicated to her friends and family. No matter the day or hour when she is needed, she is there to help. Regina works as a documentation specialist for a worldwide financing company. Her office is a few minutes from our home and has family-oriented work practices. Family is very important to me and that is something that really attracted me to Regina. Family involvement takes lots of forms for her. For example, Regina is on a bowling team with her mother, aunt and sister. I can tell you that every Tuesday night they are having a blast together! I love watching Regina with her niece, nephews and our friends' children - she is so happy around children and they know they can talk her into singing, dancing, or playing any game with her. Because she is so imaginative and creative, Regina makes up games out of everyday things; and the children just love her for that.

KARL

Is funny, loving, hard working and honest. There is something about him that makes you open up to him. The night we met we talked for hours; I knew he was special. He is my confidant, advisor and best friend. Karl is always willing to help others, especially my father who is continually looking for someone to help him with one of his projects. Children just love being around him!

Not long ago Karl was playing "Star Wars" with our nephews, and he was teaching them the ways of the Jedi. The boys took their training very seriously and it was so much fun to watch! Because his work schedule allows it, Karl sometimes helps my sister and brother-in-law with weekday babysitting when they are in a pinch. Katie and Matthew love it when Uncle Karl watches them, and they are always asking for more time with him. Karl enjoys his work in the construction industry.

One of the things we treasure most is our wonderful group of friends.

One of the things we treasure most is our wonderful group of friends. Through the year, we get together regularly at each others' homes for dinner and entertainment. We enjoy playing all sorts of games: card, board, video - it doesn't matter. The children love being involved, and they get a kick out of it when the adults lose a game. During the warmer months we enjoy camping. At the end of each winter, we all get together and plan our trips for the upcoming season. Each year the children are older, and the locations may be new; but the fun we have is still the same. We truly cherish the happy memories we have made with our friends over the last several years.

We are excited and hopeful!

We are very excited and hopeful as we begin our journey toward creating a forever family. We hope we have given you an idea of who we are as individuals, as a couple and as a family. Our child-to-be will be a very loved and precious addition to our life. Yes, we have a room in our home that's meant for our child-to-be. Even more important, we have hearts that are ready, waiting, and eager to give lots of love. We would love to learn something about you, and we would be happy to meet you. We wish you courage and peace as you work to make the best decisions for you and your child.

Karl & Regina