Hi, we’re the Maslangs—Samuel, Joan, and our little girl, Lorie. Welcome to our cozy corner of the internet!
This space, Chosen and Loved, was born out of a desire to tell stories. Stories of family, of everyday life, of faith that carries us through, and of a journey that has shaped us in more ways than we could have imagined—our adoption journey.
Samuel and I first dreamed of building a family not just through biology, but through love. After many conversations, prayers, and paperwork, we were matched with our daughter in March 2025—a moment that still feels surreal to this day. Holding Lorie in our arms for the first time was like watching a long-awaited promise unfold. She wasn’t just joining our family; she was the family we had been waiting for.
These days, our life is filled with toddler giggles, lots of chasing around the house, and simple joys like shared meals, bedtime stories, and weekend adventures. We’re learning that family isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. It’s about showing up for each other, whether in the small daily moments or in the big milestones.
Here on the blog, you’ll find three themes that shape our story:
Adoption Journey – reflections, resources, and real experiences about the process in the Philippines
Family Life – glimpses of our everyday adventures as first-time parents
Rooted in Faith – thoughts on love, purpose, and advocacy inspired by the values that guide us
Our hope is that as you read, you’ll feel welcomed into our story, maybe see parts of your own reflected back, and be reminded that no matter where you are in life, you too are chosen and loved.