We met through mutual friends while on vacation in Florida. Our relationship has grown stronger over time due to the good balance of our complimentary personalities. Emilee is outgoing and Mario is more introspective. Mario is a fantastic cook, while Emilee would rather do the dishes. The values we bring to our relationship have provided a steadiness that has been essential to our journey in parenthood.

A note from Emilee- I grew up with two younger sisters in New Hampshire. I work as a scientist in cancer research. I enjoy being near water– either on a lake or near the ocean and I like to read on my own and with the children. We enjoy traveling and love the idea of passing on a sense of wonder of the world through travel to our children.

A note from Mario- I am the youngest of four children. I had a great childhood, growing up near where we live now. I enjoy spending time outdoors in all the seasons; from fishing, golfing, and hiking to hunting and skiing. I am the property manager at a farm that produces maple syrup, honey, and apple cider. It’s wonderful to enjoy a lifestyle based on outdoor adventure and a love of nature.

Our two adopted sons can’t wait to have a new sibling! Leonardo (Leo) is 4 and is creative with an amazing imagination. Acer (Ace) is 2 and is a sweet boy with a love for music and the movie Moana. The children are typical siblings who are learning and growing together. We are open with them about their adoptions and have many books that help us discuss it regularly. We also have open relationships with their birth families and have shared many pictures of the boys with them.

Hunter, Meatball (Red), and Colt are our three labs. The dogs love the children and are very gentle with them. We plan on always having a dog in the family. We hope the dogs will continue to bring the family together, teach responsibility, and build a loving home.

We are fortunate enough to be surrounded by loving family and friends. Our house is located in peaceful Berkshire County, Massachusetts. We live in a rural setting with lots of outdoor activities, and are close to cultural, artistic, and musical venues.  We love hosting our families for holidays. Mario’s big Italian family and Emilee’s big Irish family meld well together at joint family functions.