For This Child We Have Prayed

Our journey together began in high school in 2005. We became quick friends, as we were both involved in choir and hung around the same groups of people. We did not seriously date until a few years after high school when we reconnected. After 6 months we became engaged and 3 months later we were married in November 2009. In total, we have been happily married for over 11 years.

 

Chris works in the e-learning industry to help teach children literacy, language, and mathematics. He enjoys his job and finds success in helping children become better readers and more competent students. Cassie stays at home with our daughter and is a wonderful homemaker.

 

We were truly blessed when, in 2018, we adopted a baby girl. The time we spend with our daughter is precious. We won’t lie—it’s not always easy and we are imperfect (not for lack of trying!), but we regroup and do our best to love her, teach her, play with her, praise her, and comfort her. She brings such joy, laughter, and light into our lives. It’s something we value sharing with our family and birth family. Our daughter loves to read, play with friends, be outside, and be the life of the party.

 

We both grew up enjoying many of the same things. Time with family is highly valued, and most of our weekends are spent with both sides. A family ranch in a nearby canyon gives us ample opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. We value this time with our families in creating lasting memories. We both enjoy reading books of all kinds. During the summer months, Cassandra likes to garden and go cycling. Cassie is a huge BYU football fan and Chris is a lifelong Utah Jazz basketball fan. At times, we have found immense pleasure in attending vocal or theatrical performances, as well as playing games and spending time with family.

 

Before her stroke, we played hard, and we worked hard too. We both had full time jobs and went to school full time. But when she had her stroke, everything changed ... we literally started from square one because of the trauma. At the time of her stroke, we both were in our last semester in college. It took her about 4 years to get to the point where she could talk and walk as well as she does now. It required hard work and determination, but she excelled at all that was asked of her.

 

In short, Cassie is disabled. She cannot use her right hand fully, as it lacks in fine motor skills. She can use it to stabilize objects she is carrying and has done so with our child. She does walk with a limp but is capable of getting around just fine. Cassie is capable and has shown ability, grace, and humor as she has adapted to life as is. She continues to be a great cook, decorator, and homemaker. Her skills at bringing happiness into the home are unparalleled.

 

We know that we have a responsibility to each other as spouses and have an equal duty to raise children in the right manner. We know that family is the most important thing in this world, and we plan on raising our family based on important values. We will instill principles of good living, safety, self-reliance, closeness, and laughter as we raise our family.

 

All of our adventures have taught us to really listen to one another, to be supportive at all times, and to ensure each other’s happiness. We learned to go slower, to enjoy things as they are and appreciate the good times that we have. We have been this honest with you because we want you to know who we are. We sincerely honor you and look forward to meeting you.