SOMA Living December 2025

wanted inclusivity, diversity, a place where our family would feel at home,” Joe L says. Joe F adds, “We looked in Westchester and other parts of New Jersey, but SOMA stood out. It’s open and welcoming.” Proximity to Joe F’s family in Summit was also a big factor, and friends in Maplewood gave them a glimpse of what life could be. “We found our people here,” Joe L notes. The journey to parenthood brought surprises along the way. “We planned to marry and then adopt,” Joe F recalls. “But Margot came sooner than expected. We had a shotgun wedding so we’d be officially married for her arrival.” Both daughters, Margot now nine and Georgia five, were adopted as newborns. Georgia was born in Florida in March 2020, which added a pandemic twist. “We drove to Florida when Covid was new and masks were scarce,” Joe F says. Margot is athletic and creative, with a love for soccer and piano. “She’s spirited, full of energy, a little leader,” Joe F beams. Georgia is equally dynamic and shines in her own way, passionate about dance and tennis. “They’re high-energy kids, our house is always buzzing,” Joe L says. Their bond is classic sisterhood, best friends one minute and squabbling the next. “But there’s so much love,” Joe F adds. Life in SOMA has given them the community they hoped for. “Kids run from yard to yard, it’s idyllic,” Joe F explains. They spend much of their summer at Orange Lawn, and visit Joe L’s family in upstate New York often, including stops in Saratoga to see the races. Traditions include annual trips to Provincetown, weekends at the Jersey Shore and cozy movie nights. “We both love to entertain and I love to cook,” Joe L shares. “Bolognese is my specialty, it’s simple but everyone loves it.” Local favorites include SOMA Sweets for ice cream, Words bookstore for the girls, Jackie & Sons for scones, and Ariyoshi for sushi. “Always avocado rolls for the girls,” Joe L adds. For the Joes, South Orange is more than a zip code. “We’ve built a chosen family here,” Joe L reflects. “The people make this experience incredible.” Joe F agrees. “Our life feels exactly as we hoped, kids free to roam and neighbors who feel like family. We’re lucky, and we know it.”

As Joe L puts it, “We wanted a home where our family could thrive, and we found it.”

DECEMBER 2025 | SOMA LIVING 7

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