James & Erin

Place to Vacation
Cruise
Beach

Dear Birth Parent(s), 

Words cannot express how difficult this time must be for you.  We want to thank you for giving us the opportunity to introduce ourselves and tell you a little about our family.  As parents to a little girl, we know that words alone cannot express the love between a parent and a child, so we are grateful that you love your unborn child so much that you are willing to consider an adoption plan. 
We have thought for weeks how to express in a brief letter all the things you would want to know about us and the life your child will have.  When I (Erin) shared with my best friend our struggle in what to say, she wisely asked, “If the roles were reversed, what would you want to know?” 
The answer is simple.  James and I would want to know that Graelen was going to be placed with a family who, above all else, will love her, cherish her, and keep her safe.  We want parents to nurture a love of learning, respect for the world around her, delight in the wonders that life brings, and wings to expand her horizons and indulge her curiosity (but with roots to keep her grounded when necessary).  We would want Graelen to grow up knowing she was the most important priority in her parents’ lives and a precious gift they thank God for everyday. 

Let us begin by telling you a little bit about ourselves.
We met on-line in September 2001.  After a month of exchanging emails, James finally worked up the courage to ask Erin out on a date.  Several months later, James proposed and we were married on July 19, 2003.  Like any other couple, we have our ups and downs, but our secret to lasting marital success is to face the issues together.  Since we have been together, we have experienced great highs such as our wedding day as well as some of the worst days of our life—the sudden and unexpected death of James’ mother.  Right after we were married, we started trying to get pregnant because having a family was important to both of us.  Unfortunately, after trying for a while, Erin learned she had fertility issues and would require medical intervention to get pregnant.  She underwent multiple treatments and two years later, Graelen was born.    When Graelen was about a year old, we decided to try for a second child.  After another two years of fertility treatment, we decided to move forward with our plan to adopt.  We had always planned to adopt at least one child because of James’ experience with adoption.

James can explain best why we want to adopt.
Since I was adopted myself, I realize how lucky and blessed I was to have parents who were able to provide and care for me.  I know that I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for them, and am eternally grateful that they took me into their home and their lives.  Unfortunately, both of my parents have passed away, and while I cannot express my gratitude to them, I can express my gratitude by offering a child the same love and care which was given to me.  Adopting a child means a lot to both of us.  To us, there is no difference between adopted and biological children, and our hope is this child will also feel the same way.  Being adopted myself, I am in the unique position to be able to identify as both an adoptee and an adoptive parent, which can only benefit a child.

Adoption is a gift.
Adopting is the greatest gift that not only the adopted parents, but also the biological parents can give a child.  I (James) know from my own experience my biological parents were unable to properly care for me, and they felt the best chance I would have in life is if I was adopted by a family who could provide me with a stable and secure home.  Looking back, I am much better off as a result of the loving decision made by my biological parents.  Now that I have the opportunity, I hope I can participate in offering this great gift to another child who needs us.

We respect the decision that lies before you and appreciate your consideration.
We hope we have been able to convey a sense of our lives and why adoption is important to us.  If you select us, know that your child will be raised in a loving home and cherished by us.  Thank you for reading our letter.  We commend your courage, strength and love for wanting the best for your baby. 

Our Warmest Wishes,

James & Erin