Today my gratitude goes to Whitney’s oldest brother and his wonderful partner. Their excitement for our adoption journey has been so genuine and heartwarming. From the very beginning, they’ve celebrated right alongside us — asking questions, offering support, and reminding us how loved this baby already is. The way they talk about our soon-to-be little one melts my heart; they can’t wait to be a part of our child’s life and create memories together as a growing family. Their kindness, encouragement, and joy remind me how blessed we are to have a family that embraces every chapter with open arms and open hearts.

Today my gratitude goes to Whitney’s youngest brother and his wonderful wife. Their excitement for our adoption journey has been so genuine and full of love. Even from miles away, their encouragement and support have meant the world to us. They’ve celebrated every update, every milestone, and can’t wait to welcome our baby into the family. Their kindness and thoughtfulness remind me how strong family bonds can be — no matter the distance — and how deeply our little one will be loved by everyone who’s waiting to meet them.

Today I’m especially grateful for our two precious nephews — their 4-year-old son and their 3-month-old baby boy. These two little ones are already the best of buddies, and I can’t help but smile thinking of how close in age they’ll be with our baby. It makes my heart so happy to picture them growing up together — laughing, playing, and forming those lifelong cousin bonds that mean so much. We’re already dreaming about traveling to visit them once our baby arrives, so they can all spend time together, building that special connection from the very beginning. Family love travels any distance, and I know these three little ones will share something truly special for years to come.

Today my gratitude goes to Corey’s oldest sister and her husband, two incredible people whose love and faith shine through in everything they do. Their hearts for family and their belief in the power of love through adoption have always inspired us — especially knowing that they began their parenting journey through adoption with their oldest child. The way they’ve built their family with such compassion and joy reminds us daily that family is truly made by love, not by circumstance. Their excitement and support for our adoption journey mean so much, and knowing our baby will grow up surrounded by role models like them fills me with deep gratitude.

Their 20-year-old son has the kindest heart and a calm, steady presence that makes everyone around him feel at ease. He's so excited for our baby's arrival and can't wait to be the protective, big cousin who teaches them all about life and laughter.