Richard enlisted in the Air National Guard when he was 17 years old. He worked full-time for the 148th Fighter Wing for 20 years and then in 2021, moved into a new job in the civilian sector. He now works for CDW as a project manager. Richard still is enlisted in the Air National Guard. His military affiliation has afforded us incredible opportunities, financially, as well as for our education and travels.
Rachael is a high school English and Communication teacher. She also advises the GSA at her school and helps to coach the speech and model United Nations teams. She cares deeply for her students and her profession. Being a teacher has given Rachael experiences she never imagined.
Together, we enjoy our pets, traveling near and far, and experiencing the amazing things our Northern Wisconsin hometown has to offer. We love supporting local restaurants and breweries, hiking, hitting the beach, and spending time at/around the home.
Richard’s brother lives in Washington with his wife and two incredible sons. His mom recently retired to Florida. Rachael’s parents live just a mile away. We are all in daily contact with one another and see each other whenever we’re able.
We have built a very close group of friends–some are just blocks away, some many miles. They are our extended family. We gather for annual cabin events, for holidays, and just for the heck of it. We are grateful for the technology that allows us to be in constant contact with one another, no matter where they are. When we let someone into our lives, we do so deliberately!
About Rachael
| As explained by Richard
Rachael is, without a doubt, the most thoughtful person I have ever known. She cares about people. She is adventurous. She pours her heart into her work and helps others reach their maximum potential. It is this care and concern that makes her the most dedicated educator you will ever meet. She is soft, nurturing, patient and trustworthy. If I am ever without her, people are always asking how she is before they ask me how I am… she’s that vibrant of a person. I love her with all my heart, and she is my primary motivation for everything I do. Her generosity has made me a more sensitive person; her intrepidness has made me open my eyes to new experiences, and her caring nature pushes me to be a better person every day. She will bring so much love, care, and respect to any child we are lucky enough to let into our lives.
About Richard
| (as explained by Rachael)
Richard is funny; he makes me laugh every day. Those who don’t know him well think he is serious business; however, Richard, while practical, is lighthearted and fun. He is the reason we make new friends. He is social and engaging. He loves our pets and takes incredible care of them. He never goes to bed without kissing the doggy goodnight, and he makes up tunes about the animals to the tunes of popular songs. He is dedicated, whether it be to his career, to his friends, to me/our family, or to a commitment he has made. He cleans up after my messiness with only rare complaints. He is patient and smart. He is held in high regard by his friends and colleagues. I love that he challenges me in good ways and believes in me wholeheartedly. I respect his willingness to try new things, even if he isn’t particularly fond of an idea. He is the best travel buddy and adventure partner, and I consider myself very lucky to have him in my life. I have no doubt that Richard will be a fun, devoted, and conscientious father.
Fun Facts
- Richard and Rachael hold the record for the most rescued Ash trees (inoculated from Emerald Ash Borer) in their town. Because of that, Richard now sits on the county Tree Board.
- Rachael is a National Board Certified Teacher.
- We spend a week each summer living at a lighthouse on Lake Superior. As board members for Rock of Ages Lighthouse Preservation Society, we’ve volunteered for restoration efforts since 2017.
- Richard was the 2019 Minnesota State Airman of the Year.
- We raise worms. They provide “worm tea” and enhance our efforts to compost. Rachael’s mom sells tea and compost to gardeners at the local farmers’ market every summer.
- We live in-between two city parks/playgrounds and just two blocks from Lake Superior. We live 3 miles or less from the local elementary, middle, and high schools.