We want to thank you for reading this letter. We hope it allows you to get to know a little bit about us. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you as you consider the best option for your child.
Adoption is a natural part of our families. Nikki has cousins adopted from Peru and China. And, J.J. has an older half-sister, Janet, who was placed for adoption at birth when their father was a young man. Four years ago, Janet sought out her birthfather and she and her husband and two children were warmly welcomed into the family. We know that an adopted child will be cherished by our families and friends.
About J.J.Growing up, J.J. spent his summers with his grandparents at a cabin in New Mexico. He enjoys being outdoors, fishing, and hiking. He is devoted to his family. J.J. is a great dad. He will play dolls, dress up, sing and dance; he is an inventive fort builder and adventurous bike rider. Safety is something J.J. values. He insists on wearing bicycle helmets and helps Leila make good choices in general to keep her free from danger. J.J. graduated from college with a combined degree in computer programming and business. After graduating, he got his current job at a very traditional, conservative local company that has been in business for over a century. J.J.’s office hours are 8:00-4:15 and we are almost always able to eat together as a family at 5:00. J.J. is very outgoing and enjoys helping and visiting with the neighbors. He is also entrepreneurial and has a passion for real estate. His goal is to provide quality affordable housing for people. J.J. is also a frequent blood donor.
About Nikki
Nikki grew up overseas and has traveled extensively. She is a compassionate person, enjoys reading
and has a worldly view about things. She has a graduate degree in education and before Nikki chose
to be a stay-at-home mom with Leila, she was an art teacher. Now she uses her artistic skills at
home on various sewing projects and encouraging Leila to draw and paint. Nikki really enjoys her
role as full time mom. She and Leila spend their time playing games and dolls, making cookies,
exploring outside, going to the library , pool, attending puppet shows, performances, and visiting
with friends. Nikki spends a lot of time patiently answering “Why is the sky blue?” type questions
often with help from books or the internet. Nikki is also outgoing and a leader. She is the main
coordinator of a playgroup that she and Leila have been with for the past few years.
About Leila
At 4 ½, Leila is our little performer singing, dancing, and making up songs. She also enjoys swimming and playing outside with the neighborhood kids. This past year, she was a typical child or peer model in a special needs preschool. She is friendly, loves all kids and is particularly good with younger children. She is so excited to have a sister or brother.
Activities and Extended Family
As a family we enjoy gardening, walking, playing at the park, attending concerts, puppet shows, traveling, swimming, and visiting with friends and family. Most of our large extended families live here in Kansas City, including Nikki’s parents and J.J.’s mom and step-dad. Leila’s grandparents are very involved in her life. They love to spend time with her and really try to make her feel special. Our families have been extremely supportive of our decision to adopt.
Home/Neighborhood
We live in a modest home with a big backyard and swing set in a diverse suburban neighborhood. We are located in a great school district and the neighborhood elementary school is just down the street. We enjoy and help plan block parties that are held in the driveway we share with our neighbor. Our neighbors are caring people who look out and help one another. We have one dog named Mesa. He enjoys playing in the yard, going on walks, receiving pets, and laying in the sun.
About Faith
Our faith is very important to us. We regularly attend our church which is filled with young families and children, and we are involved in several activities. Nikki uses her gift of leadership in various groups. She also enjoys bringing people together as a co-leader of our church parenting group. J.J. is a trustee for our church and helps with repairs and general maintenance. Leila is involved with Sunday school and God’s Little Singers, a group for parents and children to explore Christian music. We really enjoy the friendly atmosphere at our church and our fellow church members will be so excited to welcome another adopted child into our Christian community.
Our hope is for an open adoption where we can meet and share pictures and e-mails. However, we will respect your comfort level of contact. We really admire your strength and courage. Whether you choose our family or a different one, we wish you peace and serenity in making an adoption plan for your child.
Nikki, J.J. and Leila
