Nick & Ben
Hello Expectant Parent(s)!
We’re Nick & Ben (or sometimes Uncle Nicky & Uncle Ben when we visit our nephews). Nick is on the left, here.
So, the first thing you need to know is that we love to play games (ok, we’re a bit nerdy). Some nights we watch Jeopardy together, shouting out the answers (ok, we’re a bit competitive too!). If these 5 categories ever came up we’d be sure winners:
Nick: Theatre & Art, Team Edward vs. Team Jacob, Kitchen Concoctions, the Do-It-Yourself Channel, and Crochet.
Ben: Math & Science, Running, Making Mix Playlists, Mystery Novels and Things You Didn’t Know about Canada.
But seriously though, Nick is originally from the east coast and grew up surrounded by the theatre. He is very close to his family so it was hard for him to head west for college in the Midwest and then further west to settle in the Pacific Northwest. He loves all things related to art (favorite musical: Phantom of the Opera!) and works at home for a company that makes software for theatres.
Ben was born in Canada and moved to the Northwest after graduating from college ten years ago. He’s an avid lover of the outdoors, whether that is a run before work or a hike outside the city on the weekend. He works making software for a big video game console company but makes a point of always being home for dinner. He is the resident “green thumb” so is constantly trying to keep the plants alive!
We met through friends seven years ago, started dating immediately, and have been together ever since. In 2008 Ben proposed to Nick with a doughnut (the best kind of ring!) and we just celebrated our two year wedding anniversary this past summer. We have a strong relationship built on our love for each other and mutual respect. Ben thinks Nick is the most optimistic person he’s ever met and is thankful for the fun he brings to even the most boring task. Nick thinks Ben is one of the most thoughtful people he knows and relies on him to always be there in a pinch!
A couple of years ago we bought a house on a tree-lined street in the heart of the city with plenty of room for us and (if we’re lucky) a munchkin or two. We have a backyard and friendly neighbors who we play cards with. Our neighborhood has everything – and in multiples. Within just a couple of blocks, 3 burger joints, 2 Pho restaurants, 3 Mexican places. 6 parks are within easy walking distance. New and used clothing, knick knack, and craft stores are everywhere. If we choose to venture beyond, it’s a quick walk to downtown or we have numerous bus routes just across the street.
We’ve known as long as we can remember that we wanted to have kids, in fact it’s one of the things that brought us together. We are both lucky to have been supported by amazing parents and siblings. More than anything we want to build a strong, supportive family of our own. One part of the plan is for Nick to spend the first few years (at least) as a stay-at-home dad to start things off right!
We decided to pursue open adoption in our typical fashion – Ben read up on it and Nick “just knew”. We both believe in the benefits of continuing a strong connection between the child and you, the birthparent(s).
‘Family Game Night’ is already on the calendar, we’re just waiting for the right family to share it with!
Sincerely, Nick & Ben