We have known each other since preschool, growing up together in the same small town. With only one school in Waterville, we were in the same class throughout elementary school. Max was homeschooled during Junior High and High School, but we would still occasionally cross paths through band, choir, and sports.

After High School, we both moved away to continue our education. Max spent a year in Sweden attending Bible school before returning home to begin farming with his family. Over the years, we would see each other from time to time, and Max began to admire Alyssa’s warm smile and kind, loving nature.

After graduating college in 2018 and completing a summer internship in Pennsylvania, Alyssa moved back to Waterville, for what was supposed to be a temporary season. One evening, at a local Young Life gathering, we reconnected after Max shared his story of personal struggles with the group. What started as casual conversations quickly turned into regular texts and phone calls, then spending time together, attending church, and eventually beginning a relationship. As we grew closer, Alyssa saw just how thoughtful and caring Max is, and our friendship naturally grew into something deeper.

Family has always been very important to both of us. As our relationship developed, we spent a great deal of time with each other’s families through different activities and gatherings, such as boating, playing cornhole, celebrating holidays, and simply enjoying being together. We began dating in 2018 and were married in October 2019.

Together, we enjoy reading, playing games, walking our dogs, and spending time on the water, paddleboarding, boating, and relaxing by the lake. We also love to travel, explore new places, and create meaningful experiences together, often taking a trip each year to celebrate our anniversary. We are incredibly blessed with a large, loving family and a strong support system of friends, family, and our church community.

Adoption has always held a special place in our hearts, especially as Max’s mother was adopted as an infant. After experiencing challenges with getting pregnant, we felt led to pursue adoption as a way to build and grow our family. We are filled with excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to welcome a child into our home and share the love we have to give.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about us. We are praying for you as you make this decision and hope that you feel surrounded by love, peace, and clarity.