I spent 23 years in the Army before finally retiring 3 years ago. I decided to put off my fertility journey until I was officially retired as I did not want to put a child through having to watch me be continously deployed. I also wanted to be fully present as a parent. I watched many of my fellow soldiers have their hearts broken by having to constantly leave them for long periods of time and knew that I did not want to put a child through that. After retiring, (at the time my partner) and I tried to conceive naturally without avail. I finally went to the fertility doctor about a year ago to find out other options. I was also looking at sperm donor options at that point. That is when one doctor happened to mention embryo adoption. They stated that this was a highly effective option that most don't consider. The more I looked into it, the more excited and certain that this was the right path for me.

My neighborhood is very family friendly. There are so many children laughing and playing throughout the day. Everyone always looks out for each other. There are so many neighborhood gatherings especially during the summer.

I come from a family of 3 brothers and 1 sister. My father passed away a couple of years ago. I talk to my mother and sister on the phone everyday and see them as often as I can. Every Saturday, my youngest brother and I go out for coffee. All family members gather for the holidays. There's always a huge dinner, lots of laughter and constant reminiscing about the good old days. On Christmas we all exchange presents, we don't pick names, everyone gets a present from everyone. My sister says that we should end that tradition, but my mom will not hear of it.

I enjoy traveling and my goal is to visit all 50 states. I can't wait to share that tradition with my future children. Besides traveling, I enjoy being active outside such as hiking, swimming, and even sledding in the snow. I also enjoy baking and sharing my newest recipes with others.

Over the years I have set myself up financially for all future needs. My children would be taken care of. Their college tuition is already taken care of. I will ensure they will be set up for success.

My job will not interfere with parenting. The children will always come first. I am looking forward to attending the school field trips and future school performances. I also work the majority of time from home and have a flexible schedule.

My family and friends will be actively involved with helping to raise my children. As they say it takes a village and I do have that. My best friend will also take an active role in helping while I am working. He has already raised 5 children of his own and is looking forward for this new chapter. He misses having children in the house and finds this as a great opportunity to fill that void but also have his own freedom.

My mother is very excited to become a grandmother and my siblings are looking forward to welcoming a new member to the family. The children will grow up very loved and cherished.