Rick and I met on a blind date in 2007 and we hit it off! Our first date, we went hiking to a waterfall and I was impressed that it was something different than the usual dinner and a movie. We had so much to talk about and really enjoyed being together. Soon we were talking every single day. Even though we lived 100 miles apart, Rick found a way to come see me at least twice a week, putting in many miles and many late nights. 

Thankfully Rick was both persistent and patient even when I had cold feet and we were finally engaged one year from our first date. He has been so incredible to me. He is patient, he is kind, he puts others first and truly loves his family with all of his heart. He is the best Dad and the kids and I are so grateful to have him.

I often say that he is the best thing that ever happened to me. I think of Rick what Marjorie Hinckley thought of her husband President Gordon B. Hinckley: 

"You have always given me wings to fly, and I have loved you for it.”

For as long as I can remember I have always wanted to be a Mom and have a big family. But God had another plan for our us as we struggled for years with infertility. We were finally able to have success with many years of various infertility treatments and we have been blessed with three miracle babies.

Each successive pregnancy brought more and more complications for me. During my last pregnancy the complications became both severe and serious. I was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). POTS can make my heart rate and blood pressure unstable and MCAS is an overactive immune response. 

​I've made adjustments to be healthy and lead a normal life. I have taken up cycling to keep my body strong and healthy. I have medications, as well as a medical diet. I sit down when I know I need to be on my feet for an extended period time. I take a wheelchair along if I need to walk for an extended period of time and need to sit down for minute to balance my heart rate and blood pressure. But other than that we lead a normal life! We want to be upfront with you about these medical conditions. Even though these may be conditions I live with for the rest of my life, we have made adjustments and are thriving again. We manage them well and have a normal family life. 

Even if we could achieve another pregnancy, it would be considered risky. So we have decided that adoption will be the best way for us to continue to grow and thrive as a family. We welcome any questions you may have!

Meet Rick!