
Dear Friend,
About Us

About Todd
I was born in Ohio and spent some time in England with my family. In grade school, we settled in Chicago (close to Wrigley Field – I’m a Cubs fan!). In high school, I knew that music would be a major part of my life. I attended the University of Illinois to study music education and became a band director. I now teach music, but it doesn’t feel like a job to me – I love sharing music with young people!
When I am not teaching, you may find me on my bike riding long distances. I do several 100-mile rides each summer, and use my bike to commute to work year-round. I have done some epic rides over the years: I completed a 160-mile ride from Illinois to Michigan in one day, cycled in the Badlands of South Dakota, and even climbed the Vail mountain on my bike!
About Todd (by Heather)


About Heather (by Todd)
About Hadley
Hadley talks about how much she wants a baby sister or brother – she will be so excited when a new baby joins our family! She is full of joy and silliness, and loves to read books, plant seeds, cook soup and bake cookies, paint, dig in the sand, splash in puddles, walk in deep snow, and play any kind of musical instrument.
She is curious, gives bear hugs to anyone, tells great stories, sings loudly, and adores playing with her friends and cousins. She will be an affectionate and devoted big sister!

Our Family

Todd’s parents live nearby. His dad is a senior home caregiver, and his mom is an artist. Todd’s brother and his wife are both chefs who live near Vail, Colorado. They have four children and it’s such fun when we’re all together (plus, we eat really good food!)
Heather’s parents live in northern Illinois in a remodeled barn. We love to take trips to the country to visit them. It’s a chance to unwind in the open space. Heather’s brother designs furniture and his wife owns a sewing business in Indiana. They have three children, and we plan our get-togethers around kids’ sports and activities. Heather’s extended family loves hiking weekends, trips to Mackinac Island, and gathering on Christmas Eve.
We have loving grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins waiting to welcome another child. Grandparents often join us on our excursions and celebrations, or hang out with us at home and in our backyard.
Our home
Our Commitment to You

We want you to know that your child will be loved unconditionally and folded into a family that values every individual. We believe in showing respect to all people, compassion, kindness, and standing up for yourself. Our hearts are open and ready to embrace you and your baby. We will be respectful of your wishes, and want to work together regarding an open adoption. Your child will always know the depth of your love.
When we told Hadley that we were going to write you a letter, we asked her if there was anything she would like to say. She said to tell you, ‘I will sing songs to the baby, and I will love the baby forever.’ That seems like a perfect promise – we’ll love your baby, our baby, forever.