Why Watching NHL’s Stanley Pup Changed How I See Family – And My Path to Parenthood

Full disclosure: I did not expect to ugly cry watching a bunch of rescue puppies on TV. Yet here we are. Last night, scrolling through my news feed, I stumbled onto the return of the NHL’s Stanley Pup adoption event (watch it here), and it got me thinking about all the wild, wonderful, and sometimes unpredictable ways we build our families today.

Let me set the scene for you: The NHL, yes, that’s hockey, filled an arena not with players in pads—but with 32 adorable rescue dogs, each representing a team, frolicking for the camera and, more importantly, for loving homes. Some people might see this as heartwarming entertainment. But for anyone dreaming of building a family (I’m looking at you, TTC warriors and hopeful parents everywhere), it hits differently. It’s about hope. It’s about possibility. It’s about doing things a little outside the traditional playbook.

Puppies, Parents, and The Power of Choice

If you’ve ever considered adoption, foster care, surrogacy, or at-home conception, you know the path to family is anything but one-size-fits-all. Watching those puppies chase after the Stanley Cup (and each other), I couldn’t help but feel a connection—like, here are these sweet souls, each with their own journey, looking for someone to say, “You belong with us.”

But here’s the kicker: Whether you’re signing up for adoption events or reading up on insemination kits, the “right” way to family is the way that feels right for you. And sometimes, that’s not what you imagined growing up. Sometimes it’s not what your parents did, or what your friends are doing. Sometimes, it’s a wild, hopeful leap into the unknown.

Opening the Door to New Beginnings

I know firsthand how overwhelming these choices can feel. In our house, we’ve had late-night talks weighing the pros and cons of every path—clinic versus home insemination, waiting lists versus DIY tries, tears and laughter in equal measure.

But here’s where the Stanley Pup made me stop and smile: these dogs didn’t end up there by accident. They were given a fresh start because someone believed in them, someone took a chance. And that’s what we do, too, when we decide to start or grow our families in new ways.

The Realities of Modern Family Building

Let’s get real: It’s 2025, and the options for parenthood are more expansive (and, let’s be honest, a little more confusing) than ever. Maybe you’re a couple facing infertility. Maybe you’re single, LGBTQ+, or managing a medical condition. Or maybe you simply want more choices and privacy than you’d get in a clinic.

Adoption is incredible, but the process can be long, emotional, and expensive. IVF is a miracle for many, but it comes with its own set of challenges. And then there’s the world of at-home insemination, which often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves.

Why At-Home Methods Deserve a Place at the Table

When I first learned about at-home insemination kits, I was skeptical. Was it really as safe? Would it even work? Kind of like trusting that a rescue pup would fit into your family with a little love and patience, I had doubts. But research (and let’s be honest, some late-night message boards) showed something eye-opening:

• Privacy and Comfort: You get to navigate this journey in your own space, on your own timeline.
• Affordability: Many at-home kits, like those from MakeAMom’s resource-packed website, cost a fraction of clinical procedures.
• Accessibility: For folks with conditions like vaginismus, low motility sperm, or allergies, there are thoughtfully designed kits (hello, BabyMaker and Impregnator) that meet those unique needs.
• Success Rates: Turns out, MakeAMom reports a 67% success rate for their clients—a number that surprised me and made me rethink what’s possible without stepping foot in a clinic.

We’re All Looking for Our Team

Watching the Stanley Pup, I realized how much we all crave connection, belonging, and the chance to love—and be loved. For some, that means welcoming a rescue dog, for others, it’s building a family through science, support, and a little bit of hope.

The best part? There’s no wrong way. Whether you become a parent through adoption, at-home conception, or any other path, the common thread is choosing to open your heart and your life to new beginnings.

What’s Your Next Move?

If you’re standing at the crossroads, unsure which direction to go—just know you’re not alone. Sometimes the most beautiful families (and the happiest puppies) come from unexpected places. And if you’re curious about creating your family at home, check out some relatable guides and resources on MakeAMom’s site for info that’s practical, honest, and designed to help you take that next step with confidence.

So, I’ll leave you with this thought: What would happen if you gave yourself permission to build your dream team, your way? I’d love to hear your stories, hopes, and even your Stanley Pup tears in the comments below. Because in this journey together, every path is worthy—and every family is a win.